President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday urged Nigerians to shun hate and embrace unity across religious lines, declaring that “hate is not an option for us.”
Speaking at the funeral service of the mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, in Plateau State, the President used his own family as an example of peaceful coexistence, stressing that love and understanding can bridge any divide.
“I inherited Islam from my parents and haven’t changed, but my wife is a pastor. She prays for me, and there’s no conflict. I have never tried to convince her to convert,” Tinubu said.
The President continued by emphasizing the need for mutual respect among people of different faiths, insisting that Nigerians are all accountable to one divine authority.
“I believe in the freedom of religion. We are praying to the same God. We are answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him,” he added.
Tinubu said faith should never be a reason for division or hostility, adding that Nigeria’s diversity will only become a strength when tolerance and respect prevail.
“Our differences are not meant to divide us but to strengthen us. Hate is not an option,” he stressed.
He concluded by praying for the soul of the departed to rest in peace and for God to comfort the bereaved family.
