By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Catholic Bishop of Osogbo Diocese, Most Reverend (Dr.) John Akin Oyejola, has called on Nigerian leaders and public office holders to rekindle hope among the people as the nation grapples with various challenges.

Speaking in his 2025 Lenten message, Bishop Oyejola emphasised that the season presents an opportunity for leaders to re-evaluate their priorities and focus on initiatives that genuinely uplift the masses.

The bishop, addressing Catholics marking the commencement of Lent with Ash Wednesday, underscored the need for selflessness in leadership. He urged politicians to shift their attention from self-serving interests to policies and actions that benefit all, rather than a privileged few.

He noted that this year’s Lenten observance coincides with the Jubilee Year celebration, a reminder of the virtues of hope, charity, and almsgiving, which the season embodies.

Bishop Oyejola challenged politicians and public officials to use this period for sincere reflection and repentance, warning that their actions and inactions have only deepened the people’s despair.

“We are in a difficult situation because we have failed to do the right thing,” he lamented.

“Politicians must rise above selfishness and personal gain. They should redirect their efforts towards sustaining the hope that Christ’s victory on the cross has brought to humanity.”

He further stressed that Lent offers a sacred opportunity for transformation, urging Christians to forsake their old ways and embrace a renewed life anchored on hope and trust in God.

The cleric also charged Catholic faithful to dedicate their fasting to a noble cause by setting aside meals for the less privileged, ensuring that at the end of the Lenten season, leading to Easter celebrations, they extend a hand of generosity to the needy.