By Peter Jene, Senior National Correspondent
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is facing backlash from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over an Easter advertisement that has been deemed offensive by many Christians. The controversial advert, posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) under the hashtag #FIRSNigeria, featured a picture of a Point of Sale machine accompanied by the caption, “Jesus paid your debts, not your taxes.”
The post quickly drew condemnation from Nigerians, especially the Christian community, prompting calls for the FIRS to issue a public apology. While the post has since been removed, CAN’s National Director of National Issues and Social Welfare, Abimbola Ayuba, issued a statement on Tuesday demanding accountability from the FIRS and other relevant authorities.
In the statement, Ayuba urged President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and the Department of State Services (DSS) to address the matter and ensure that the FIRS adheres to communication practices that promote unity and peace. CAN emphasized the need for public institutions to uphold values that foster respect, unity, and cohesion, particularly during religious holidays.
The association expressed deep concern over what it perceives as a recurring trend of provocative messages surrounding religious occasions. CAN emphasized that the Easter period, a time of solemn reflection and sacred observance for Christians, should not be trivialized or mocked through insensitive messaging. The analogy drawn by the FIRS between a core Christian doctrine and civic duty was deemed inappropriate and disrespectful by CAN.
CAN called on both public and private organizations to exercise caution and sensitivity regarding the religious beliefs of Nigeria’s diverse population. It emphasized the importance of crafting communications with a clear understanding of the cultural and religious landscape of the nation, especially when disseminated by public institutions.
The demand for an apology from the FIRS underscores the significance of religious harmony and respect for diverse faiths in Nigeria. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for responsible communication practices, particularly in a multicultural and multi-religious society like Nigeria. As the nation strives for unity and coexistence, it is imperative that institutions uphold principles of respect and tolerance, especially during religious holidays that hold profound significance for millions of Nigerians.
