The founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Apostle John Okoriko, has raised concern over what he described as a growing number of suicide cases, especially among Christians, attributing the trend to mounting economic hardship across the country.
He spoke during the church’s monthly interactive service held in Uyo on Sunday, where he urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and patient despite the difficult economic conditions. According to him, better days still lie ahead, and despair should never be seen as an option.
Okoriko cautioned against self harm, noting that many people are now taking drastic decisions because of temporary challenges, without considering that situations can still change for the better. He stressed that life’s struggles can be overcome without resorting to destructive actions.
He explained that individuals with strong faith should be able to withstand life pressures and find strength to move through difficult moments. In his words, suicide should never be seen as an answer to hardship, as faith provides a way to endure and overcome challenges.
The cleric further noted that many people who once faced severe difficulties eventually lived to tell positive stories, stressing that what seems unbearable today may turn around unexpectedly tomorrow.
Drawing from biblical teaching, Okoriko referenced the story of a prison guard who attempted to take his life after believing that Paul and Silas had escaped from custody. He explained that Paul intervened and stopped him from harming himself, a moment that later revealed a surprising twist when the imprisoned men were eventually freed by the authorities.
He used the story to highlight the importance of patience in moments of despair, warning that acting in haste can lead to irreversible consequences.
