Former vice president and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential flag bearer in the last election, Atiku Abubakar, and the managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku have called on Nigerians to emulate the virtues of love and sacrifice which characterised the life of Jesus Christ.
In a message released by his Media Office in Abuja to mark the Easter celebration, the Alhaji Atiku described the two qualities as essential to the unity that Nigeria so desperately needs at this time when vested and provincial interests threaten to tear our nation apart.
“This Easter, we join our Christian brothers and sisters in Nigeria and across the world to celebrate the essence of the festivities. This commemoration is a time for deep reflection as it marks the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is a time to reach out to our brothers and sisters in need.
“It is also a time for all of us – regardless of faith, or ethnicity – to come together to pray for the peace of our nation. We must all remain constant in our efforts to promote unity,” Atiku said.
He expressed the belief that Nigeria shall rise and overcome her national challenges.
The Waziri Adamawa also encouraged Nigeria’s leaders to use the opportunity of the Christian celebration of Easter to reflect on their stewardship to the people and to the nation.
Also, the NDDC managing director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku called on the people of Niger Delta and Nigerians in general to use the period of Easter celebration and Ramadan fast to strengthen peace.
Ogbuku made the call yesterday in a special message to felicitate with the people of Niger Delta in the celebration of Easter in commemoration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He reminded both Christians and Muslims that the period of Easter and Ramadan fast are used to pray fervently for peace and tranquility in the country.
The NDDC boss urged Niger Deltans to use the Easter period to reflect on their collective responsibility in fast-tracking the development of Nigeria’s oil-rich region.