A former vice president and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last election, Atiku Abubakar; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen; governors, and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), have joined other leaders to call for love, unity and hope as the country celebrates Easter today.
In his Easter message released through his media office in Abuja to mark the celebration, Atiku described love and sacrifice as essential to the unity that Nigeria so desperately needs at this time when vested and provincial interests threaten to tear the country apart.
He called on Nigerians to emulate the virtues of love and sacrifice, which characterise the life of Jesus Christ.
He urged Nigerians to spread love among themselves, stressing that such is the very essence of the commemoration of Easter, which Christ demonstrated through his death and resurrection.
Also, in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Speaker Tajudeen urged Christians and Nigerians in general to be selfless and sacrifice for one another as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
The Speaker noted that it is only when the leaders and followers alike shun self gratification and collectively work toward a common goal that the country would be stronger and better and the world would also a better place.
He, therefore, called for prayers for Nigeria to overcome her current socio-economic and security challenges, stating that Easter is one of the best seasons to do so as patriotic citizens.
Similarly, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, in a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, urged Nigerians to spread love among themselves, stressing that such is the very essence of the commemoration of Easter, which Christ demonstrated through his death and resurrection.
Kalu stated that the teachings of Christ embodied love, sympathy, kindness, giving, forgiveness and a lot more virtues.
Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has felicitated with Nigerians, especially Christians on the celebration of Easter.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the CAN president, in an Easter message he signed on Saturday, noted that amidst citizens’ daily challenges and triumphs, Easter stood as a timeless reminder of hope, renewal and redemption.
“It is a season that calls us to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made for humanity and the triumph of light over darkness.
“The lessons of Easter hold particular relevance for Nigeria today. In a time marked by uncertainty, we are called to embody the virtues of love for one another. Just as Christ’s resurrection brought new life and hope to the world, so too can we, as a nation, rise above our differences and difficulties and work towards a brighter future.
“Let us remember that Easter is not merely a time for celebration but a call to action. As leaders, we are charged with the responsibility to bring newness into the system by leading with integrity, compassion and humility.”
The Katsina State governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has also extended his Easter greetings to the Christian community in the state, urging continued interfaith harmony and prayers for lasting peace.
In a statement issued yesterday in Katsina by his chief press secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Governor Radda conveyed his warm wishes to all Christians celebrating Easter.
On his part, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State called on the Christian faithful in Nigeria and Imo State in particular to use the period of Easter celebration to renew their hope for a better tomorrow.
Also, the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on the federal government to immediately put in place, measures that will address the high cost of living towards alleviating the suffering of the people.
The party also urges Nigerians to use the occasion of Easter to seek a national renewal by rekindling their love and commitment towards one another, especially at this trying time.
By Baba Martins, Balarabe Alkassim, Abbas Jimoh, Abuja & Tijjani Ibrahim, Katsina
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