During the Easter mass at the Correctional Center in Onitsha, Anambra State, Peter Obi, the Labour Party Presidential Candidate for the 2023 general election, shared words of encouragement with the inmates. He reminded them that in Nigeria, everyone is essentially a prisoner seeking freedom and redemption in the eyes of God.
Reflecting on the biblical story of Mary Magdalene, who went from being unholy to becoming the first to witness the resurrected Christ, Obi emphasized that being behind bars does not signify the end of one’s life. He urged the inmates to strive for correction and salvation, which can lead to a new beginning even ahead of those who are considered free in society.
Archbishop Valerie Okeke of the Onitsha Catholic Archdiocese, along with 12 other priests, also participated in the Easter mass inside the Correctional Center. In his homily, he drew parallels between Mary Magdalene’s transformation and the potential for the inmates to make positive changes and contribute meaningfully to society and their spiritual life.
Obi, who has a long history of celebrating Easter with inmates dating back to his tenure as Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, witnessed the joy and gratitude of the inmates as they expressed their appreciation for his consistent presence and support.
