Friesland Campina WAMCO Nigeria Plc, the manufacturer of Peak Milk, has issued an apology to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). They apologized for using the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor to promote their product on Good Friday. The company has acknowledged the sensitivity of the social media post, “considering the sobriety of the season“. They also stated that it was not intended to minimize the significance of the season. They also didn’t mean to overly exploit Jesus Christ’s unrivalled sacrifice.
In a letter addressed to CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, dated April 10, 2023, Ore Famurewa, Executive Director of FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc (Corporate Affairs), expressed regret for the incident and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to nurturing Nigeria while upholding all religious laws, tenets, and guidelines. The advertisement has since been removed from social media platforms.
CAN, in a statement by its General Secretary, Joseph Daramola, had described the Peak Milk advert as “insensitive, offensive, and totally unacceptable.” The organization warned all companies and organizations to be mindful of their customers’ religious and cultural sensitivities when promoting their products.
CAN also state that it was considering serious sanctions against the firm. Their decision might even include a Christian boycott of their products. The Christian organization emphasized that any attempt to trivialize or disrespect the Gospel faith would be met with a resounding rebuke.
The advertisement, which caused a public outcry among Christendom, had been described as “blasphemous.”
Daramola said the promotion was extremely disrespectful to the Christian faith. It was also an affront to the millions of Christians in Nigeria and beyond. Good Friday is a solemn day for Christians all over the world. It is a day to mark the death of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who was crucified on the cross for their sins. Therefore, it is not a day to be used for crass commercial purposes.
FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc’s action has been a matter of concern to the Christian community. Many are expressing disappointment over the company’s decision to use a sacred event for commercial gain. The incident has also raised questions about the level of sensitivity displayed by corporate entities. Especially towards the religious and cultural beliefs of their customers.
The apology from the company is a step in the right direction. However, it remains to be seen how they will regain the trust of their Christian customers.
cc: Vanguard
