By John Dike, Osogbo
Arole Oduduwa and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, have extended warm Easter greetings to Christians, urging peace, unity, and religious harmony.
In a statement by his Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni described Easter as a sacred season symbolising sacrifice, renewal, and the triumph of hope over adversity.
The monarch noted that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ offer profound lessons in selflessness, forgiveness, and unwavering faith, calling on Nigerians to reflect these virtues in their daily lives.
He emphasised that national progress and stability depend on unity across religious and ethnic lines, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains essential for sustainable development.
The Ooni also urged citizens to use the Easter period to pray for Nigeria, its leaders, and economic recovery, encouraging resilience and optimism despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
Similarly, Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, congratulated Christians in the state, across Nigeria, and around the world on the 2026 Easter celebration.
In his message, he described Easter as a period of sober reflection commemorating the death and resurrection of Christ, which symbolises victory over sin and offers hope of eternal life to believers.
He called for continued peaceful coexistence, unity, and love among residents, urging citizens to be their brother’s keeper and extend goodwill to one another during and beyond the festive season.
“Easter reminds us of the triumph of hope over despair. It is a time to show love, care for the needy, and strengthen the bonds that unite us as a people,” he said.
Oyebamiji also encouraged residents, particularly Christians, to remain steadfast and support the APC in the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
He assured the people of his commitment to an inclusive, participatory, and people-oriented administration if elected, noting that all religious groups would be fairly represented in governance.
According to him, an APC-led government would work within constitutional provisions to promote unity, peace, stability, and harmony among adherents of different faiths.
“On behalf of my family, I rejoice with our Christian brothers and sisters on this special occasion. Easter is a period of renewed hope and reflection. Let us use this moment to evaluate our past, strengthen our present, and look to the future with faith and optimism.
“This season calls for compassion, devotion to God, and service to humanity. I pray for many more years of peace, prosperity, and shared celebration for all,”.

