President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed why he has never tried to persuade his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, to convert to Islam, emphasizing his respect for love, religious freedom, and mutual understanding among people of different faiths.
Speaking on Saturday at the funeral service of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, in Jos, Plateau State, the President said that his marriage to a Christian pastor has never caused any conflict in their home.
Tinubu, who arrived in Jos around 2 p.m. for the ceremony held at the COCIN headquarters church, explained that he inherited Islam from his family and has always upheld the principle of freedom of religion.
According to him, both he and the First Lady serve the same God and will ultimately give account to Him, stressing that what truly matters are people’s actions, character, and love for one another.
He urged Nigerians to embrace tolerance, peace, and unity, warning that hatred should have no place in the nation.
“Hate is not an option for us. Love is what you preach — that we should love one another,” Tinubu said. “Nobody determines what God has ordained. I inherited Islam from my family; I didn’t change. But my wife is a pastor — she prays for me.
“No conflict. And I never, at any time, tried to convince or convert her. I believe in freedom of religion. We are praying to the same God, and we will all answer to Him. Our deeds, our character, and our love for others are what matter most.”
The President also prayed for the repose of the soul of the late Lydia Yilwatda and asked God to comfort and bless her family.
“May the Almighty accept the soul of Lydia and grant blessings and glory to those she left behind. May her soul rest in peace,” he said.
Source:Africa Publicity
