Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, and his Lagos State counterpart Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rallied Nigerians to imbibe Christ-like sacrifices this season of Easter.
The governors, who stated this in their Easter message to the people of the state, said residents and especially Christians, must use the opportunity of the Easter season to engage in more prayers for the nation.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa, the governor encouraged the people to imbibe the lessons of sacrificial living and love, which he said are the hallmarks of Easter.
The statement added that Jesus Christ enormously demonstrated the height of sacrifice and true love for humanity through his death and resurrection.
Governor Makinde said: “As the world marks another Easter, a reminder of the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross and his resurrection, it is pertinent to felicitate with residents of Oyo State, especially those of the Christian faith.
“While regretting that they could not celebrate the Easter festivity as they are wont to, due to the restrictions brought upon us all by the need control social gathering and movements as a result of moves to contain COVID -19, I must salute the commitment, comportment and prayers of all residents of the State in the last few weeks.
“I also want to assure residents of the State that their government is doing everything possible to protect them and to ensure that the Easter festivity goes as seamless as possible.”
In his own statement, issued by Mr Gboyega Akosile, the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged Christian faithful in the State to continue to live in peace and harmony with believers in other faiths in the State.
He noted that “good neighbourliness, selflessness and patience were among the several lessons taught and exemplified by Jesus Christ.”
The Governor therefore enjoined every citizen to reflect on how best to positively impact the lives of friends, colleagues, neighbours and family members.
He added that ‘‘as Christians, this period offers us an opportunity to rethink our relationships as individuals, as communities and as a nation.’’
“The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ typified love, affection and tolerance. It also marked the end of evil and beginning of good deeds.’’
With the corona virus pandemic threatening to bring the entire world to its knees, Sanwo-Olu said the occasion of the resurrection of Jesus Christ should be a veritable avenue for all to show more love, kindness and care for one another.
The Governor said the citizens should join hands with the government in the fight against what he described as the common enemy.
“We must brace up and be ready to confront this scourge with uncommon resolve and dedication. We must not be deterred by the speed at which it is spreading, rather we must work harder to eradicate the pandemic and all that it stands for. As a government, we will do everything within our powers to rid the State of this unwanted guest.”