President Tinubu Attends Funeral, Urges National Cohesion in Jos
Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday, October 4, 2025, visited Jos, the capital of Plateau State, to attend the funeral service of Mama Lydia Goshwe Yilwatda. Mama Yilwatda, who passed away in August 2025 at the age of 83, was the mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. The solemn event, held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters, served as a platform for the President to reiterate his administration's commitment to fostering peace and unity across Nigeria.
Emphasis on Religious Freedom and Mutual Love
During his remarks at the funeral, President Tinubu underscored the critical need for religious freedom and mutual love among Nigerians. He declared, 'Hate is not an option. We must continue to build a Nigeria where peace and love thrive.' The President cited his own interfaith marriage as an example of religious tolerance, noting, 'I was born into Islam and have remained a Muslim, while my wife is a pastor. She prays for me, and there has never been any conflict between us. I have never tried to persuade her to convert.' He urged the clergy to continue their role in promoting peace and moral values, stating that 'love is what we must continue to preach—love for one another.'
Dignitaries Gather to Pay Respects
The funeral service attracted a host of high-profile government officials and political leaders, reflecting the significance of the event and the stature of the deceased's son. Among the dignitaries present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, alongside several other governors and senior APC officials. Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude for President Tinubu's presence, acknowledging its importance to both the Yilwatda family and the people of Plateau State. He also thanked the President for his support in addressing insecurity within the state.
A Mother's Legacy and Call for Unity
President Tinubu paid tribute to Mama Lydia Yilwatda, describing her as 'a mother of the community, a mother of the state, and a humanitarian.' He commended Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, calling him 'a good man' and 'a man of character and intellect,' and noted that the large turnout of dignitaries was a testament to the high regard for both the APC National Chairman and his late mother. The President's visit to Jos, a region that has faced challenges related to insecurity and inter-communal relations, reinforced his administration's message of national cohesion and the importance of overcoming differences for collective progress.
5 Comments
Mariposa
The President's call for unity is always welcome, especially in a place like Jos. However, real peace requires addressing the root causes of conflict, not just verbal appeals.
Coccinella
Attending the funeral and speaking about unity sends a positive signal to the people of Jos. Still, the government must follow through with actionable strategies to tackle insecurity and foster lasting reconciliation beyond public statements.
Muchacho
It's good to see high-profile leaders emphasizing religious harmony and tolerance. Yet, many Nigerians are still waiting for tangible security improvements that make such harmony possible on the ground.
Coccinella
The message of love and peace is undoubtedly important for national cohesion. But without concrete steps to ensure justice and security for all communities, these words might ring hollow for those affected by violence.
Katchuka
A political show at a funeral. Nothing will change.