Cleric warns against rising suicide cases

The founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Apostle John Okoriko, has expressed concern over the alarming rate of suicide, particularly among Christians in the nation. He urged individuals to refrain from suicidal thoughts and other forms of self-harm, despite the ongoing economic difficulties in the country.

Okoriko made these remarks during the monthly interactive service held in Uyo on Sunday.

The evangelist encouraged Nigerians to exercise patience in life, despite the current harsh economic conditions, stressing that better days are always on the horizon.

He pointed out that many individuals resort to self-harm due to various issues, overlooking the possibility that tomorrow may bring improvement and greater rewards.

"Many Christians today are taking their own lives due to the severe economic challenges in the country. If you have Christ within you, you can navigate through all of life's challenges and emerge unscathed without resorting to self-harm.

"People encounter difficulties and still emerge with testimonies. Suicide becomes a perceived solution when one feels unable to cope with life's challenges, unless they are anchored in Christ," Okoriko stated.

Referencing scripture, Okoriko recounted the biblical episode where a jailer contemplated suicide upon realizing that Paul and Silas, whom he was guarding, were about to escape. Paul cautioned him against harming himself.

He highlighted that the Roman authorities ultimately released and acquitted Paul and Silas, noting that the jailer might have taken his own life without waiting to witness how the very accusers who imprisoned the two men later granted them their freedom.

The founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Apostle John Okoriko, has expressed concern over the alarming rate of suicide, particularly among Christians in the nation. He urged individuals to refrain from suicidal thoughts and other forms of self-harm, despite the ongoing economic difficulties in the country.

Okoriko made these remarks during the monthly interactive service held in Uyo on Sunday.

The evangelist encouraged Nigerians to exercise patience in life, despite the current harsh economic conditions, stressing that better days are always on the horizon.

He pointed out that many individuals resort to self-harm due to various issues, overlooking the possibility that tomorrow may bring improvement and greater rewards.

"Many Christians today are taking their own lives due to the severe economic conditions in the country. If you have Christ within you, you can navigate through life's challenges and emerge unscathed without resorting to self-harm.

"People encounter difficulties and still emerge with testimonies. Suicide becomes a perceived solution when one feels unable to cope with life's challenges, unless one is anchored in Christ," Okoriko stated.

Referencing scripture, Okoriko recounted the biblical episode where a jailer contemplated suicide upon realizing that Paul and Silas, whom he was guarding, were about to escape. Paul intervened, advising him not to harm himself.

He highlighted that the Roman authorities ultimately released and acquitted Paul and Silas, noting that the jailer might have taken his own life without waiting to witness how the very accusers who imprisoned them would later grant them freedom.