Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has sent felicitations to Christians and urged all Nigerians to imbibe the enduring virtues of love and selfless sacrifice exemplified by Jesus Christ.
In a statement to mark the celebration of Easter, Atiku emphasized that these noble virtues remain indispensable to fostering the unity and cohesion, which Nigeria so urgently requires at this time.
Describing the Easter season as a period for deep introspection, compassion, and reaching out to those in need, Atiku called on Nigerians of all faiths and ethnicities to unite in prayer and purpose for the peace and progress of the nation.
“Let us remain steadfast in the pursuit of unity across every divide. Our strength as a people lies in our togetherness. A nation united shall always endure and flourish,” he affirmed.
Expressing optimism, Atiku declared his belief that Nigeria shall overcome her present trials. “Though evil may momentarily cast a shadow, the collective goodness and resilience of Nigerians will prevail. In unity and shared purpose, our nation shall rise,” he said.
Furthermore, he urged Nigeria’s leaders at every level to use the Easter period as a time of introspection, embracing the spirit of the season to recommit to their sacred duty of service.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio in a message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, he appealed to those behind violent attacks and killings across Nigeria to respect the sanctity of human life and abandon their evil ways, saying peace is essential for the nation’s progress.
Akpabio stressed that the season should inspire love, forgiveness, and a renewed commitment to national unity.
“For those who have taken to killing fellow human beings, maiming others and destroying property, I appeal that they respect the sacredness of human life. Easter is a period of love and I hope the atmosphere that permeates this season would cause them to jettison their evil ways, turn a new leaf and embrace peace,” he said.
Former governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, urged Christian faithful to reflect on the values of love, sacrifice, and unity that define the Easter season.
In a message, Kalu noted that Easter is a period of sober reflection and spiritual renewal, which offers a unique opportunity for Christians to re-dedicate themselves to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
“Easter is not just a celebration; it is a deep reminder of the victory of light over darkness, hope over despair, and love over hate. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of our faith as Christians, and it teaches us that even in the face of trials and tribulations, there is hope for a better tomorrow,” Senator Kalu stated.
Kalu, who is the lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of all religious and ethnic backgrounds, pointing out that no nation can thrive in an atmosphere of division and intolerance.
According to the Chairman, Senate Committee on South East Development Commission, Nigeria’s diversity remains its greatest strength, and leaders at all levels must rise above sentiments to foster unity and national development.
He also used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to pray for the country’s progress, particularly as the nation continues to grapple with economic and security challenges.
Director General of the South-East Governors Forum, Uche Ekwunife, CON, in a goodwill message expressed deep confidence in the region’s future, and affirmed that through unity, shared purpose, and trust in God, the South-East will overcome its challenges and continue on the path of growth and prosperity.
Ekwunife who represented Anambra Central Senatorial District in the Senate said: “Let us use this sacred period to seek God’s wisdom for our hardworking governors as they steer the affairs of our region with purposeful leadership and commitment to good governance.”
Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Hon. Ifeanyi Ogbonna while felicitating the constituents of Arochukwu and Ohafia local government areas and Nigerians in general lauded them for their optimism, patriotism and patience amid the current challenges in the nation.
Ogbonna also known as “Ignes” urged his constituents to endure the difficulties brought on by the policies of the government and continue to strive for the unity of the country.
In the spirit of Easter, a group, Uromi Like Minds Initiative (ULMI) has donated essential foodstuffs, medical supplies, personal hygiene materials, and modest financial aid to orphanages and homes of for the elderly in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Addressing journalists at the event, Mr. Sylvester Ezehi, Chairman of the Welfare Committee of ULMI, described the exercise as a noble and consistent gesture that has brought hope and relief to the underprivileged over the past five years.
“Our mission is simple yet profound — to bring smiles to the faces of the needy, the forgotten, and the less fortunate in our community. It is a cause we have embraced wholeheartedly, and we are committed to sustaining it for years to come,” he said.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Chairman of ULMI, Deacon Darlington Okpebholo Ray, said: “The Easter season reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice. In that same spirit of selflessness and love, we must rise to the occasion and extend a hand of kindness to those who are disadvantaged.
“As sons and daughters of Uromi, both at home and in the diaspora, we have a moral obligation to reshape the prevailing narrative about our homeland. Uromi is a town blessed with an illustrious heritage and a legacy of greatness.
“We are the birthplace of national icons such as the late Chief Anthony Enahoro, a foremost nationalist, and Chief Tony Anenih, a political colossus. It is incumbent upon us to honour this legacy by championing peace, charity, and communal progress.”
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has described Easter as a time for forgiveness, love, and strengthening of the bonds of unity across creeds and tribes.
Mbah stated this in his Easter message to the people of Enugu State and the nation yesterday.
While the people a blissful celebration, Mbah urged them to be reminded of the r common brotherhood and humanity.
He said: “The celebration is a call to forgiveness and peaceful coexistence. Let us also use this solemn celebration to pray for Nigeria, and reach out in love across creeds, to strengthen our bonds and unity. That way, our dear country can overcome all its challenges.”
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, in a statement by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, commended Christians for their prayers and consistent devotion to the virtues of sacrifice, solemnity, humility, and spiritual revival exhibited during the Lent.
Soludo further emphasized that Easter’s lessons perfectly align with his administration’s vision for Anambra State as a peaceful, livable and progressive society where government policies promote social harmony, economic opportunity, and peace of mind for all.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in his Easter message, called on all citizens to commit to fervent prayers for leaders, struggling communities, and Plateau State, trusting God for divine renewal, peace, and progress.
“I remain confident that by God’s grace and mercy, we shall overcome every challenge before us. Let us, therefore, pursue peace with all people and work in unity to confront the issues facing us. This is the time to rise above our differences and draw strength from our diversity in Christ. Together, let us rebuild and reclaim Plateau, a land of peace, promise, and great potential,” he declared.
Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, in a statement signed by his Press Secretary, Fred Aghedo, urged Christians to continue to pray for the country to overcome the present socio-economic challenges.
The deputy governor assured the people of the state of Senator Monday Okpbebholo’s readiness to bring dividends of democracy across the nooks and crannies of Edo state.
Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, in an Easter message by his Special Adviser on Media, Ike Abonyi, urged Nigerians not to relent in their prayers over the security situation in the country, cautioned those playing God in Rivers State and toying with the destiny of the citizens, to be beware of the consequences of their actions.
He implored President Bola Tinubu not allow anyone lead him astray over the situation in Rivers state. According to him, the President should instead “be guided by the voice of reason by restoring Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who has the mandate of the people.”
Secondus added: “The Sole Administrators activities have set Rivers State on a keg of gunpowder, and I weep for my state. Sadly, Rivers State has found itself on the ugly side of history over the control of resources and the state by one man.
“My special appreciation goes to the Ijaw nation, its leaders and people, the indisputable fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria with over 30 LGAs across seven states, for managing the provocations.”
Credit: The Sun