Easter: Tinubu Urges Political Restraint, Civic Maturity Ahead of 2027 Elections

President Bola Tinubu in his Easter message yesterday, urged Nigerians, particularly political leaders to embrace restraint, responsibility and civic maturity ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also assuring citizens of his administration’s commitment to building a safer and more secure nation through intensified efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.

Also yesterday, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, canvassed for care of the needy and less privileged in society, while Governors and other political leaders charged Nigerians to leverage on the spirit of the season to show love and tolerance for one another.

In his Easter message, addressed to Nigerians at home and abroad, the President acknowledged that, despite the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, challenges to national security have persisted.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tinubu called for political responsibility, restraint, and civic maturity, stressing that the Election Act must guide the conduct of political parties and actors to safeguard democracy, peace, and national stability.

His words: “As the nation gradually approaches another electoral cycle, this season also serves as a call to civic duty and maturity. The Electoral Act must guide the conduct of our political parties and political actors. Let our choices be guided by a shared commitment to peace, continuity, stability, and the long-term good of our country. Democracy flourishes where responsibility, restraint, and informed participation prevail.”

The President expressed optimism that the country is on the path to recovery, citing improving economic indicators as evidence that the right choices are being made.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to keep faith with the administration’s vision of a safer, stronger and more prosperous nation.

“Fellow Nigerians, you have been very supportive of my administration because you trust our ability to make our nation better. I will continue to serve to retain your trust. I enjoin you to keep the faith and never cease to contribute to the progress and greater future we seek, each in our own way, to the emergence of a democratically stronger, more prosperous, and safer nation,” Tinubu further said.

According to him, the government was making available the necessary resources and strengthening foreign partnerships to enable security agencies to deal decisive blows to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.

His words: “Despite the good efforts of the administration and the gallant efforts of our men and women of the Armed Forces who leave behind their families to confront the evil actors in our land, challenges to our security have remained. However, my administration continues to make resources available and forge foreign partnerships to enable us to deal decisive blows to the agents of terror and banditry.”

Tinubu noted that following his condolence visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he commiserated with victims of the recent deadly attack, security chiefs had given strong assurances of progress, while international support was also mobilised to reinforce Nigeria’s response.

He added: “On Thursday, I was in Jos to commiserate with people of Plateau State, share in their grief, and offer reassurances of better days to come. The leaders of the nation’s security institutions have given strong assurances of progress. We have also sought and are receiving assistance from outside our shores.”

He further assured residents of other parts of the country facing one form of insecurity or another that concerted government actions are beginning to produce results, urging citizens to support lawful efforts, remain united, and reject forces that threaten the country’s collective peace and stability.

“I am reassured that the citizens appreciate our efforts. I will continue to remind us of the imperative of unity and oneness. No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace.”

The President said no nation can make meaningful progress where fear prevails, assuring communities affected by violence that better days lie ahead.

Tinubu said Easter season symbolises sacrifice, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness, noting that its message resonates strongly with Nigeria’s present realities as the nation navigates economic stress and security challenges.

Also, wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, charged Nigerians to remember the needy in society and extend necessary support to them.

In her Easter message, the First Lady in a four-paragraph release titled ‘The Blessed Hope in Christ’s Resurrection,’ stated, inter alia: “Easter is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the hope His resurrection brings to all humanity.

“As we celebrate Easter with our loved ones, friends, neighbours and communities, let us remember those in need and extend compassion and support wherever we can.

“May the spirit of Easter inspire us to uplift the vulnerable, love one another, make sacrifices when necessary and work together to build a peaceful and prosperous nation for all.”

Draw Strength from Hope, Sacrifice, Says Inuwa

Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, called on Nigerians to draw strength from the season’s enduring message of hope, sacrifice and triumph over adversity.

Yahaya, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), urged for prayers, peace, interfaith harmony and collective action as the nation works toward renewal and progress.

In a goodwill message to commemorate the 2026 Easter celebration, Governor Yahaya described Easter as a solemn reminder of the triumph of good over evil and hope over despair, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

He congratulated the Christian faithful on the successful completion of the Lenten season and the joyous celebration of Easter, calling on them to uphold the virtues of compassion, selflessness and service to humanity.

“Easter symbolises love, sacrifice and the triumph of good over evil. I heartily congratulate our Christian brethren on the successful completion of the Lenten fast and the celebration of this spiritually significant occasion,” the Governor stated.

The NSGF Chairman expressed optimism that the blessings and lessons of the season would inspire renewed faith and strengthen the collective resolve of Nigerians toward building a more peaceful, progressive and prosperous nation.

According to him, the Easter message of resurrection and hope offers reassurance that the nation’s present challenges are surmountable through unity, faith and shared responsibility.

Governor Yahaya noted that as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nigerians must remain committed to unity, mutual understanding, tolerance and strict adherence to democratic principles in order to preserve the country’s hard-earned democracy and strengthen national cohesion.

Kebbi Governor Sues for Peaceful Coexistence

Kebbi State Governor has Nasir Idris has praised the peaceful coexistence among various ethnic and religious communities in the State. He noted that the harmony was a testament to the State’s commitment to unity and development.

The Governor thanked stakeholders for their contributions to his administration, particularly their meaningful advice and active participation. He reminded Christians of the significance of the Easter period and urged them to adhere to related services. Governor Idris assured that his administration will sustain its policy of inclusive government. This includes ensuring all segments of society benefit from empowerment programs, skills acquisition, and educational opportunities.

The governor also promised fair distribution of the state’s resources. He appealed for continued support for his administration as he strives to develop Kebbi State.

 Jarigbe Warns Against Dirty Politics

Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has set a new tone for the looming political contest in Cross River North, declaring that his re-election campaign will be driven by ideas, civility, and respect, not insults or personal attacks.

In a message to his constituents yesterday, titled “A Piece of My Thoughts,” the lawmaker formally signalled the start of his re-election bid while urging supporters and political actors to embrace decorum despite an already charged political atmosphere.

Addressing his constituents, Jarigbe expressed gratitude for their support but quickly laid down what he described as non-negotiable standards for the campaign.

He said, “My dear good people of Cross River North, as we embark on this re-election journey, I thank you deeply for your unwavering support. I must speak plainly to you about the path we must take.”

With formidable challengers in the race, including former Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, the senator cautioned against descending into mudslinging, insisting that his campaign would remain focused on issues.

He said, “I am aware that emotions run high. Our opponents, including my brother, former Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, are formidable.

“I charge you: do not use uncouth words against any aspirant. No insult, no personal attack, no abusive language. We are better than that. Our campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults.”

The Senator said, “Furthermore, I demand that you respect the seat of governor, whether serving or former, regardless of who occupies it. Whether you believe the former governor performed or underperformed, that office commands our collective dignity. No man is infallible. Let us critique records, not abuse persons.”

Jarigbe also urged fellow aspirants to remain connected to grassroots sentiment, cautioning against political denial.

Idris: May Easter Season Strengthen Bonds Of Our Unity

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, yesterday, joined all Christian brothers and sisters in embracing Easter’s message of hope, renewal, and sacrifice.  In a statement yesterday, Idris described the season as one that reminded Nigerians of the power of faith to overcome adversity, and of the promise of new beginnings.

“May it strengthen the bonds of unity that hold us together as one nation, and inspire us to continue building a Nigeria where peace, tolerance and goodwill prevail. Happy Easter to all celebrating, at home and abroad,” he said.

Wike: Season Symbolises New Beginnings of ‘Renewed Hope’

FCT Nyesom Wike yesterday described Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a profound symbol of new beginnings and “renewed hope” for all Nigerians.

The minister affirmed this in a formal Easter message to FCT residents and Christians in the nation’s capital on the successful completion of the 40-day Lenten fast.

He extended greetings to all residents as they join the global Christian community in celebrating Easter.

The minister said the Easter season offered an opportunity for the Christian faithful to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and urged residents to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation and foster a spirit of harmony within their communities.

He added, “This Easter season offers us an opportunity to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, and for new beginnings and renewed hope. I urge FCT residents, especially the Christian faithful, to use the occasion of the Easter celebrations to rededicate themselves to the virtues of love and service to our fatherland.”

Wike prayed for the joy of the season to fill the hearts and homes of all residents and encouraged them to demonstrate Christlike compassion and kindness to one another.

“As we celebrate, let’s remember the values of love, compassion, and kindness that Easter represents. May we continue to work together towards building a community that reflects these values, where everyone can live in peace and prosperity”, he stated.

He assured residents that the FCT Administration has deployed comprehensive security measures to ensure a hitch-free celebration to guarantee a peaceful and enjoyable Easter celebration that will enable them focus on what matters most – family, friends, and faith.

Wike also used the occasion to acknowledge the transformative impact of President Bola Tinubu’s administration on the Federal Capital Territory, noting that the ongoing infrastructure revolution across the city and satellite towns was a direct result of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which, he said, he was proud to be part of.

 Bauchi Governor: Embrace Core Values of Love, Sacrifice, Forgiveness

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, yesterday extended Easter greetings to Christians in Bauchi State and across Nigeria as they commemorate Good Friday and Easter, calling on all citizens to embrace the core values of Easter, love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and peaceful coexistence.

In a goodwill message, the Governor congratulated Christian faithful on the successful completion of the Lenten season, and described Easter, which marks the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as a symbol of hope, renewal, and God’s enduring love for humanity.

According to the message signed by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado,  which was made available to journalists yesterday, the Governor also called on residents to reflect on their relationship with God and one another, stressing the need for unity beyond ethnic, religious, and political differences.

Mohammed acknowledged the socio-economic and security challenges facing the country, including global economic pressures and rising energy costs linked to international conflicts. He, however, assured residents of his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property while improving living conditions in the state.

The Governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to sustaining peace, strengthening resilience, and implementing policies in collaboration with the Federal Government to ease hardship and promote economic stability. He urged citizens to support government efforts through cooperation, prayers, and faith.