When the People celebrated the death of Herod
By Edward E.C
Many people have argued that it is wrong to celebrate the death of a leader.
Nonetheless, it’s an age long ritual to see people celebrate the passing away of an oppressively wicked leader.
According to Josephus a notable Christian historian in his writings on the mood of the nation during the death of Herod,he suggested that Herod himself was aware of this sentiment. He believed people would celebrate his death and, fearing a public display of joy, ordered the deaths of prominent citizens to ensure some form of mourning. While this order was not carried out, it highlights the perception of public sentiment towards Herod.
After killing James and imprisoning Peter. Herod himself died because of his prideful acceptance of the crowds’ idolatrous acclamation.
An angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.Act 22:1-4,20-24
I fear that with the way many Nigerians are celebrating the death of late President Muhammadu Buhari,the Tinubu led Federal Government may be forced to go the Herodian way by ordering the clampdown on many Nigerians.
For instance in Jos,capital of Plateau State many educational institutions defy the government Public Holiday by opening there schools because of the perception they have towards the former military dictator, Muhammadu Buhari who first ruled Nigeria in 1984 before he was toppled in a coup in 1985.
We can infer that from the mood of a lot of Nigerians as regards Buhari’s death given to his unpopularity amongst many Nigerians, it’s reasonable to assume that many people, particularly those who suffered under his rule, will continue to welcomed his death as a release from his oppressive regime.
