The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, has urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic and religious divisions, stressing that unity remains the country’s strongest pathway to peace, stability, and sustainable development.
In an expanded 2026 Easter message, the Speaker described the season as a solemn reminder of sacrifice, renewal, and hope, calling on citizens to reflect deeply on the enduring values embodied by Jesus Christ.
“Easter is not just a celebration; it is a call to live above hatred, prejudice, and division.
“It reminds us that love, sacrifice, and unity are the foundations upon which any great nation must stand,” he said.
Ogundoyin emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity should be harnessed as a strength rather than allowed to fuel disunity.
According to him, “Our ethnic and religious differences should not define our fault lines but should instead enrich our collective identity.
“We must consciously choose understanding over suspicion and cooperation over conflict.”
He warned that divisive rhetoric and actions pose a serious threat to national cohesion, urging Nigerians to reject tendencies capable of deepening fault lines.
“At a time like this, every Nigerian has a role to play in safeguarding our unity. We must resist being drawn into narratives that set us against one another,” he added.
The Speaker also called on political and public office holders to lead by example through sincerity and accountability. “Leadership must be rooted in service.
“The true essence of Easter is sacrifice, and those in positions of authority must be willing to make decisions that prioritize the welfare of the people above personal or political interests,” Ogundoyin stated.
He noted that responsive governance remains key to addressing prevailing socio-economic challenges.
Speaking further, he said, “Easter symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. For us as leaders, it is a reminder that no matter how difficult the challenges may seem, there is always a path to renewal if we act with courage and integrity.”
Addressing the youth, the Speaker urged them to remain focused and constructive in their engagements.
“Our young people must understand that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow but partners in building today.
“They must refuse to be used as tools of violence or division and instead channel their energy into innovation, enterprise, and nation-building,” he said.
While extending warm Easter greetings to Christians in Ibarapa East State Constituency and across Oyo State, Ogundoyin reaffirmed his dedication to legislative initiatives that promote peace, inclusiveness, and sustainable development.
“We remain committed to enacting laws and supporting policies that will foster harmony and improve the quality of life for our people,” he assured.
He also congratulated Christian members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, as well as the management and staff, on the Easter celebration, expressing gratitude for the message of hope brought through Christ.
“We thank God for the gift of hope and redemption that Easter represents. It is a message that continues to inspire faith in a better future,” he said.
Ogundoyin concluded by urging Nigerians to imbibe the virtues of humility, compassion, and selflessness.
“If we truly embrace the lessons of Easter and act with a shared sense of purpose, I am confident that Nigeria will overcome its present challenges and emerge stronger, more united, and more prosperous,” he said.