The Peak Milk manufacturer, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, has been criticized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for an offensive Easter advertisement that has outraged Christians in the nation.
The company’s usage of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor in the contentious advertisement to market their goods on Good Friday was deemed “absolutely unacceptable” by the Christian community (CAN).
Barrister Joseph Daramola, the General Secretary of CAN, issued a warning to the corporation, advising it to pull the advertisement, apologize to Christians, or risk legal action and a Christian boycott of its goods.
“We find this advert to be insensitive, offensive, and totally unacceptable. Good Friday is a solemn day for Christians all over the world, a day we commemorate the death of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who was crucified on the cross for our sins. It is not a day to be used for crass commercial purposes,” he said.
Daramola added that FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC’s action was disrespectful to the Christian faith and an affront to millions of Christians in Nigeria and beyond.
“We are deeply disappointed that a company of such repute would stoop so low to exploit the religious sentiments of its customers for profit,” he said.
CAN further said that it was considering imposing sanctions against FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, including a boycott of their products by its members and other well-meaning Nigerians who share its concerns.
“We call on the company to issue an unreserved apology to the Christian community and withdraw the offensive advert immediately,” it said.
“We, therefore, urge all companies and organizations to be mindful of the religious and cultural sensitivities of their customers when promoting their products. We will not tolerate any attempt to trivialize or disrespect our faith. Be warned,” the statement added.