By Chibuike Nwabuko
Abuja (Sundiata Post) — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has extended its best wishes to Christians in the country and indeed all Nigerians on the joyous occasion of Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
In a message signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the Party noted that “Easter signifies a time for renewal and rebirth”.
It called for prayers, cooperation and support from Nigerians, adding that the vision of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria is achievable, with the above three.
“We hope that there will a rebirth of the belief that each of us is our brother’s keeper, irrespective of our religious, tribal, political and sundry affiliations.
“Indeed, the Easter festivities remind us to be selfless as Jesus Christ was during his time on earth. As we gather with family and friends, let us also spare a thought, prayers and show love to the needy in our respective communities.
“As the country gradually slides out of economic recession, the APC assures Nigerians of government’s determination to restore the economy on the path of growth.
“With the prayers, cooperation and support of Nigerians, the vision of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria is achievable.
“The APC calls on Nigerians to continue to support the President Muhammadu Buhari APC-led administration as it works to deliver on the promises made to Nigerians,” it read.
In his Easter message, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, congratulated the Christian community in Nigeria on the occasion of the celebration of this year’s Easter festivities.
He stated that the celebrations are a worthy finale to the period of fasting, prayer and self-denial, which they had gone through in the past 40 days of Lent.
In a press statement released by his Media Office, the APC chieftain urged the Christian faithful and Nigerians of other faiths to see the sacrifice and deprivation of the period preceding Easter as similar to the sacrifice and perseverance, which the present economic difficulties has imposed on all Nigerians, and which would finally terminate with celebration and merry-making when the difficult period is over.
The former Vice President advised all Nigerians to learn from the pain, joy, love and caring which characterise the period of Lent and the Easter celebration, and allow these virtues to continuously guide us as a people in our individual and community relationships.
He said that a national attitude built on selflessness and sacrifice would go a long way in laying the foundation of true patriotism and greatness of the nation.
He urged those in positions of authority to endeavour to encourage the citizens to make sacrifice and show love especially when the country is facing challenges by making their own lives, in public and private, something transparent, and worthy of emulation.
Atiku prayed for peace and prosperity for all Nigerians, and urged them to enjoy a stress-free and violence-free celebration.
He also reminded the celebrants and other Nigerians in their midst to continue to seek God’s divine favour on the efforts of the present administration to make the country, a better place for us all.