Columnist Muyiwa Adetiba Reflects on the Intersection of Global Conflict and Personal Spiritual Renewal During a Volatile 2026 Lenten Season

Muyiwa Adetiba reflects on a volatile Lenten season marked by war and economic pressure, while celebrating the gift of aging on his birthday this Easter.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 4, 2026, 4:10 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Vanguard News

The Paradox of Violence During a Rare Spiritual Confluence

The 2026 spiritual calendar presented a rare alignment as Ramadan and Lent commenced simultaneously, offering a potential platform for interfaith unity and national reflection. However, according to Muyiwa Adetiba, the period was instead marked by an escalation of destructive activities that contradicted the core tenets of both faiths. In Nigeria, the North East was rocked by explosions, while worshippers in the North Central region faced targeted attacks on Palm Sunday. These acts of violence, carried out by groups claiming religious motivation, suggest a profound disconnect between spiritual practice and the actions of those seeking to influence the country's religious landscape.

Global Geopolitical Volatility Amidst Sacred Observances

The trend of seasonal aggression extended beyond domestic borders into the international arena, involving some of the world's most influential nations. Adetiba observes that Israel and the United States engaged in military action against Iran during a month that should have been defined by sobriety and charity. This geopolitical friction resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement, leaving a lasting emotional and economic impact on humanity. The missed opportunity for a global reorientation toward peace reflects a failure of leadership to utilize the symbolic confluence of sacred seasons for diplomatic de-escalation.

Economic Pressures and the Disconnect of the Political Class

While Easter traditionally signifies a period of victory and celebration, the current economic climate in Nigeria has made such festivities increasingly inaccessible for the average citizen. Adetiba critiques the ruling party for appearing to operate a capitalist agenda that lacks a safety net for the poor, despite its progressive labeling. There is a perceived widening gap between the decision makers in Abuja and the lived reality of those facing rising inflation and the indirect consequences of global conflict. This economic strain has forced many to shift their focus from communal celebration to a more solitary struggle for basic survival.