The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has sought an apology from Friesland Campina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, the makers of Peak Milk, for a recent social media advertisement that utilized the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor to market their product on Good Friday.
The advertisement was branded as inappropriate, disrespectful, and absolutely unacceptable by the group on Monday. It also stated that it is “exploring measures against FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, including a boycott of their products by their members and any well-meaning Nigerians who share our concerns.”
CAN made this known in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Barr. Joseph Daramola, saying that Good Friday is a solemn day for Christians all over the world to commemorate the death of Jesus Christ, and not a day to be used for crass commercial purposes.
The statement partly reads: “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.
“FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC’s action is not only disrespectful to the Christian faith but also an affront to the 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.
“We are considering sanctions against FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, including a boycott of their products by our members and all well-meaning Nigerians who share our concerns. We call on the company to issue an unreserved apology to the Christian community and withdraw the offensive advert immediately.
“We recall a similar incident in the past when Sterling Bank Plc. used a crucifixion imagery to promote their product. We condemned it then, and we condemn it now,” the statement partly read.
“The Christian body therefore, urges all companies and organizations to be mindful of the religious and cultural sensitivities of their customers when promoting their products. CAN will not tolerate any attempt to trivialize or disrespect the Christian faith,” the statement added.