The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly criticized FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc, the manufacturers of the Peak milk brand, for appropriating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor to promote their product on Good Friday.
CAN General Secretary Joseph Daramola expressed in a statement that Good Friday holds deep significance for Christians worldwide, as it is a solemn day to remember the death of Jesus Christ, their Lord and Saviour, who was crucified on the cross for their sins. He further emphasized that using Good Friday for commercial purposes, such as the Peak milk advert, is insensitive and completely unacceptable.
The statement by CAN General Secretary Joseph Daramola read, “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 and not a day to be used for crass commercial purposes.”
Mr. Daramola expressed his disappointment and accused the company of being disrespectful to the Christian faith. He stated, “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 further urged the company to issue an immediate apology to the Christian community. CAN is also considering sanctions against the company, which may include a boycott of their products by its members and other Nigerians who share similar concerns.
Mr. Daramola also highlighted a previous incident where Sterling Bank Plc used crucifixion imagery to promote their product, and expressed concern over companies disregarding the religious and cultural sensitivities of their customers. He emphasized, “We condemned it then, and we also condemned it now. We will not tolerate any attempt to trivialize or disrespect our faith. Be warned!”
His statement reiterated CAN’s stance against any form of disrespect or trivialization of the Christian faith, and served as a warning to companies to be mindful of the sentiments of their customers when using religious imagery in their promotional materials.