President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to rise above religious and ethnic divisions, stressing the need for unity, peace, and collective progress.
Speaking on Saturday in Jos, Plateau State capital, during the funeral service of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Tinubu emphasized the importance of religious tolerance.
He said, “I inherited Islam from my family, I didn’t change; but my wife is a pastor and she prays for me at all times.”
“I have never convinced or converted her; I believe in the freedom of religion.
“We are praying and answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him our deeds and character.
“So, our love to others is what matters; we must learn to live together as one people.”
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the President for attending despite his busy schedule. He identified insecurity as a major obstacle to Plateau State’s growth but assured that his government had put strategies in place to foster peace and harmony.
In his tribute, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, described his late mother as devoted, selfless, and compassionate.
“She was a strong, loyal and determined woman; she led an exemplary lifestyle full of sacrifice and humility. My parents, particularly my mother lived for others; whatever I give her, she shares it with our neighbours. That is the woman that we are celebrating today,” he said.
Yilwatda expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, state governors, members of the National Assembly, the Plateau State government, and Nigerians across the country for standing by his family during their time of loss.
The late Nana Lydia, who died at the age of 83, was finally laid to rest in her hometown of Dungung, located in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State.
