Nigerian Leaders Call for Peace, Unity, and Hope this Easter

As Christians worldwide observe Easter, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, key Nigerian figures have issued calls for prayers for sustained peace and unity across the nation. Among those sending messages were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Concurrently, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, conveyed a strong belief that Nigeria would overcome the challenge of corruption that impedes its advancement.

Atiku Abubakar, in a statement released by his Media Office, extended greetings to Nigerians and reminded the government of its constitutional duty to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens and residents.

He characterized the Easter period as a time for serious contemplation, significant sacrifice, and divine affection, encouraging Christians to engage in deep self-examination, repentance, and the renewal of hope.

Abubakar advised Christians to embody the selflessness, forgiveness, and empathy demonstrated by Jesus Christ in their everyday interactions.

He highlighted that sacrifice and love are central to the Easter message, urging Nigerians to leverage this occasion to express genuine love and compassion towards one another.

Senator Godswill Akpabio assured the nation of the federal government's dedication to eradicating terrorism, which has contributed to security issues in various parts of the country.

In a statement from his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio encouraged Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.

The Senate President urged all Christians to reflect on the principles of love and peaceful coexistence as they celebrate the sacred feast of Easter.

Akpabio acknowledged the present challenges Nigeria faces, particularly concerning security, and appealed for understanding and a commitment to national and security awareness.

Similarly, Peter Obi expressed hope for Nigerians, stating that a 'Hallelujah Sunday' will follow the sorrow of Good Friday.

Sharing his thoughts on his X handle, the former Governor of Anambra State remarked, "As you commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ amid severe hardships, I urge you to remain hopeful bearing in mind that 'Good Friday must come before Easter Sunday.'

"At Easter, I sincerely share with you the weight of the economic burden on families, even as I encourage you not to lose heart. Let us see our current struggles as a temporary 'cross' that we must bear before our nation can experience a political and economic rebirth."

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State prayed for divine intervention to bring peace to the state and the country.

In a message conveyed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago described Easter as a significant period for Christians globally and a time for solemn celebration.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, through his media aide Ismaila Uba- Misilli, advised Christians to draw strength from the sacrifice and triumph over adversity demonstrated by Jesus Christ.

He called for collective efforts in prayer, promotion of peace, and interfaith harmony as the nation strives for renewal and progress.

Yahaya also encouraged Nigerians to maintain unity leading up to the 2027 elections, urging adherence to democratic principles to safeguard the country's democracy and bolster national cohesion.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State conveyed warm Easter greetings to Christians in Delta State and across Nigeria, urging them to remain firm in their faith and adhere to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, he emphasized that Easter symbolizes hope, sacrifice, and renewal, reminding believers of the victory of light over darkness and life over death through Christ's resurrection.

He urged Christians to be inspired by the virtues of love, humility, perseverance, and selflessness exemplified by Jesus Christ, stating that such qualities are vital for cultivating a more united, peaceful, and prosperous society.

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo also called for unity, hope, and renewed faith among Christians in Edo State and Nigeria during the Easter celebration, which commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The governor characterized the season as a sacred time embodying the virtues of sacrifice, love, hope, and redemption.

He exhorted Christians to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life was a testament to humility, selflessness, and profound faith.

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji extended his felicitations to Christians in the state and Nigeria on the occasion of this year's Easter celebration.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, the governor noted that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the core of the Easter celebration, represents the greatest sacrifice for humanity's redemption and should be cherished.

He urged Christians to emulate Christ's virtues of humility, love, perseverance, and compassion.

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah sent warm felicitations to Christians, urging citizens to embrace peaceful coexistence and sustain the virtues cultivated during Lent.

In his Easter message, Mbah described the season as a powerful reminder of hope's triumph over despair, love over hate, and eternal life over death, emphasizing that Christ's resurrection highlights the enduring values of sacrifice, redemption, and renewal.

He further encouraged Nigerians to foster unity and peaceful coexistence across all religious, ethnic, and political lines, asserting that Nigeria's strength lies in its diversity and shared aspirations.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara urged the state's residents to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, reconciliation, and unity.

In a goodwill message, the governor implored citizens to follow the example of Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice on the Cross brought forgiveness and reconciliation to humankind.

He described Easter as a sacred period for Christians to promote peace, unity, and love.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, Fubara also expressed hope that the Easter season would bring joy, hope, and renewal to Rivers State and Nigeria.

Furthermore, the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, expressed strong optimism that Nigeria would overcome the pervasive issue of corruption that hampers its progress.

Olukoyede, who offered this assurance while congratulating Christians nationwide on Easter, stressed that corruption would not ultimately defeat the country because its people are not defined by it.

In his Easter message delivered via the commission's Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC boss urged Nigerians to adopt the Easter lesson of victory over trials, corruption, and death, noting its relevance for the nation.