President Bola Tinubu has urged the people of Plateau State to embrace peace and unity as essential foundations for the nation’s advancement and development.
He delivered this message during the funeral service of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos, Plateau State.
Mama Lydia was the mother of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The President praised the religious leaders in Plateau for their ongoing efforts to foster peace, harmony, and mutual respect within the community.
He emphasized that hatred is not a viable path forward and encouraged continued advocacy for love and tolerance as pillars for sustainable progress in the region.
Tinubu appealed to both Plateau residents and Nigerians at large to rise above religious and ethnic divisions.
“I was born into Islam and have remained steadfast in my faith; however, my wife is a pastor who constantly prays for me,” he shared.
“I have never sought to convert her because I deeply respect religious freedom.”
“Ultimately, we all worship the same Almighty God and will be held accountable for our actions and character.”
“What truly matters is our love for one another; we must learn to coexist as a united people,” he added.
The President reiterated his commitment to uniting Nigerians and assured Christian communities in Northern Nigeria of his administration’s dedication to religious fairness and equity.
During a meeting with Christian leaders at the COCIN headquarters in Jos, Tinubu stated, “My mission is to bring this country together and ensure its prosperity, and we are making steady progress.”
He encouraged the clergy to maintain confidence in his government, highlighting the responsibility of leaders to manage religious matters for the collective good.
President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to combat insecurity nationwide, particularly terrorism and banditry.
“We are making headway against bandits and will continue to defeat them. We are also addressing conflicts between farmers and herders,” he assured.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State expressed gratitude to the President for attending the funeral despite his demanding schedule.
The governor identified insecurity as the primary obstacle to the state’s development and noted that his government has implemented strategies to foster peace and stability.
Mutfwang also took the opportunity to commend First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her support of displaced and vulnerable women and children in Plateau.
Earlier, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the chief mourner, described his mother as a devoted, loving wife who lived a life dedicated to serving others.
“She was a resilient, loyal, and determined woman who exemplified sacrifice and humility.”
“My parents, especially my mother, always put others first; whatever I gave her, she shared generously with our neighbors. That is the remarkable woman we honor today,” he said.
The APC national chairman expressed appreciation to the President, governors, legislators, the Plateau government, and Nigerians nationwide for their support during his family’s time of mourning.
The late Nana Lydia, aged 83, was laid to rest in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State.
President Tinubu reflected on the unchangeable nature of divine will, emphasizing that God’s plans and promises are paramount.
He reiterated his upbringing in a Muslim household alongside his wife’s pastoral role, underscoring his belief in religious freedom and unity under one Almighty God.
The President praised Mama Lydia for leaving behind a legacy every parent hopes for-a son of integrity and intellect.
“We have witnessed his leadership and dedication, which is why he was chosen to lead our party. You are a visionary, a progressive thinker, and a committed leader. Thank you for your service,” he remarked.
Tinubu highlighted the presence of governors, officials, and dignitaries at the funeral as a testament to the respect held for both the APC chairman and his mother, reminding all of the core values of unity, contentment, and effective leadership.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang also lauded President Tinubu for his attendance and ongoing support for Plateau’s development.
Mutfwang lamented the persistent insecurity that has plagued the state for decades, causing immense suffering, especially among defenseless women and children, many of whom have been displaced or lost their lives prematurely.
He affirmed that his administration will continue to rely on the President’s moral and administrative backing to confront the complex security challenges facing Plateau.
In a sermon titled “Time,” delivered by Rev. (Dr.) Johanna Seri, Chairman of the Provisional Church Council (PCC), based on Ecclesiastes 3:11, the message was that God grants everyone a specific time to fulfill their purpose.
Similarly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the late Lydia as a humble woman who chose the right moment to depart from this life.
Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda shared that his mother lived with a chronic illness for 47 years, yet God sustained her throughout.
“My mother was a tireless entrepreneur. She prepared and sold Akara and pap every morning and afternoon, ran a shop, and sold drinks at the market. Despite her health challenges, she was always active,” he recounted.
He added that while his father was a missionary with limited income, his mother’s earnings supported the family, as she handed over every kobo to him to meet household needs.
The APC chairman expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and other dignitaries for their unwavering support during his family’s difficult time.
He also thanked governors, particularly progressive ones from across Nigeria, for their overwhelming encouragement.
The funeral was attended by numerous dignitaries, including current and former governors, legislators at both national and state levels, ministers past and present, as well as religious and traditional leaders.
In response to the President’s visit to Plateau, former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar criticized the timing and intent, noting that many regions remain devastated by insecurity and loss of life without receiving presidential consolation.
“It is regrettable that the President has not visited any of the states ravaged by violence to offer sympathy to the affected families,” Atiku stated.
“Today, he appears in Plateau State-not to share in the people’s sorrow-but to attend a political funeral linked to his party’s chairman.”
“This reflects misplaced priorities and a lack of empathy, as families continue to bury their loved ones while the President chooses to celebrate with political elites.”
“From Benue to Niger and recently Kwara, the North Central region has suffered some of the worst violence in recent memory, yet the APC-led government has failed to physically support victims or console their families.”
“Even during his symbolic visit to Benue in June, the President avoided Yelewata-the massacre’s epicenter-opting instead to remain in Makurdi, turning his back on those still grieving.”
“Now, in Plateau, he again prioritizes political festivities over comforting the bereaved.”
“The message is clear: this is a leader who prefers celebration over compassion, feasting over feeling.”
“The Nigerian people are watching closely-and they will not forget.”