President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to live in peace and love one another, describing hate as “not an option” in the pursuit of national unity.
The President made the appeal at the funeral service of the late Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Headquarters in Jos, Plateau State.
In a statement signed by Iliya Rhoda Ishaku, Director of Information and Poverty Reduction, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, on Monday, October 6, the President called on citizens to show love to one another regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
According to the statement, Tinubu said, “Hate is not an option but people should love one another and be their brother’s keeper. Our love to our fellow human being is what is important, we must learn to live as one people.”
The President also reflected on his personal life, emphasising religious tolerance as a foundation for peaceful coexistence.
“I inherited Islam from my family, I didn’t change. My wife is a pastor and I have never convinced or converted her; she prays for me all the time. I believe in the freedom of religion,” he said.
He reminded Nigerians that every human being is accountable to God. “We are praying and answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him of our deeds and character,” he added.
President Tinubu described Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as “a good man, a progressive thinker, performer, who lives a good life and that has earned him the position of the APC party Chairman.”
The statement quoted the President as saying he was in Jos alongside governors, APC leaders, and other dignitaries to honour the late Mama Lydia.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Prefers Ceremonies While Nigerians Die Daily, Says ADC
“Make it a joyful day as you bury your mother. I did mine and I am doing well. Mama Lydia dedicated her life to God and humanity and Nigerians are gathered in Jos today to honour her,” Tinubu said.
He also commended the clergy for their support in organising the event, urging them to continue promoting peace and stability in Plateau State.
The President prayed for the repose of the soul of Mama Lydia and blessings upon her family.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State thanked the President and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their presence and continued support for the people of the state.
He said Plateau was aligning its development priorities with the Federal Government’s eight-point agenda.
The APC National Chairman, Professor Yilwatda, expressed gratitude to the President for his trust and confidence.
“I appreciate Mr President for believing and trusting in me and promise to keep the trust,” he said, while thanking well-wishers for their prayers and support.
According to the statement, the funeral was attended by top government officials including members of the National Assembly, ministers, governors, former service chiefs, diplomats, traditional rulers, and the clergy.
The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction was represented by its Minister of State, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu.