Why I Didn’t Bother to Convert My Wife – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of Plateau State, to embrace peace and unity for the progress of the country. The president made the appeal during the funeral service of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos.

Tinubu commended religious leaders in Plateau for their continued messages of peace and understanding, emphasizing that hatred and division have no place in a progressive nation. He urged Nigerians to rise above religious and ethnic differences, stressing the importance of tolerance and love.

Speaking on religious freedom, the president said he had never tried to convert his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who is a pastor. “I inherited Islam from my family; I didn’t change. My wife is a pastor, and she prays for me at all times. I have never convinced or converted her. I believe in the freedom of religion. We may differ in faith, but we pray to the same Almighty God to whom we are answerable,” he said.

Tinubu assured Christian communities in Northern Nigeria that his administration remains committed to fairness and inclusivity, pledging to promote national unity and harmony. He also reaffirmed his government’s determination to defeat terrorism, banditry, and farmers-herders clashes.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State expressed appreciation to the president for attending the funeral despite his busy schedule. He described insecurity as the greatest challenge facing the state and said his administration is working to restore peace and stability. Mutfwang also thanked the First Lady for supporting displaced and vulnerable women and children in the state.

Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda paid tribute to his late mother, describing her as a resilient and selfless woman who lived a life of service. “My mother was a hustler. Despite being on medication for 47 years, she never stayed idle. She sold Akara, pap, and drinks to support our family. She was strong, loyal, and humble,” he said.

President Tinubu praised Prof. Yilwatda’s leadership qualities, calling him a man of intellect and dedication who has served the APC with integrity.

Other dignitaries at the event included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, governors, ministers, legislators, and traditional rulers.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized President Tinubu’s visit, describing it as misplaced given the ongoing insecurity in Plateau and other northern states. Atiku said the president’s attendance at a “political funeral” instead of visiting victims of violence was “a sad reflection of misplaced priorities” and accused the administration of showing insensitivity to the suffering of citizens.

The late Nana Lydia Yilwatda, aged 83, was laid to rest in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State.