The management of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc, renowned manufacturers of Peak Milk, sincerely apologizes to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for the inappropriate use of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor to promote their product on Good Friday.
We acknowledge the sensitivity of the social media post, especially during this solemn season, and we deeply regret any offense caused. The advertisement has been immediately withdrawn.
In a letter addressed to the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, dated April 10, 2023, the Executive Director of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc (Corporate Affairs), Ore Famurewa, expressed remorse and reiterated the company’s commitment to upholding religious laws, tenets, and guidelines while nurturing Nigeria.
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“We hereby reaffirm our unwavering mission to respect all religious beliefs and offer our sincerest apologies. We assure you that we will take measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. Please accept our deepest apologies, and be assured of our utmost regard,” Famurewa stated.
CAN, in a statement released by its General Secretary, Joseph Daramola, described the advertisement as “insensitive, offensive, and totally unacceptable.”
The organization also cautioned all companies and organizations to be mindful of the religious and cultural sensitivities of their customers when promoting their products, and warned that serious sanctions, including a boycott of their products by Christians, may be considered against FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc.
Daramola further emphasized that the advertisement not only disrespected the Christian faith but also offended millions of Christians in Nigeria and beyond. He stated, “Good Friday is a solemn day for Christians worldwide, a day we commemorate the death of our Lord and Savior 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 was condemned for exploiting the religious sentiments of its customers for profit. CAN recalled a similar incident in the past involving Sterling Bank Plc and reiterated its stance against any attempt to trivialize or disrespect faith.
The organization called on FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc to issue an unreserved apology to the Christian community and immediately withdraw the offensive advert.
CAN urges all companies and organizations to be mindful of the religious and cultural sensitivities of their customers in their promotional activities. The organization remains resolute in its commitment to protecting the sanctity of the Christian faith and will not tolerate any form of disrespect. Let this serve as a warning to all.
AGS NEWS 