South West Chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has urged world leaders, especially Nigeria’s political leaders to emulate the selfless service of Pope Francis as he joined Christians worldwide, particularly the Catholic faithful in mourning the passing of the Vatican leader.
He noted that political leaders should honour him not with words alone but with action backed with principle, through justice, equity, fairness and show love to the governed.
He said the death of the Pope, a humble servant of God coming during the celebration of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection, is a sacred return to his Maker.
Ajadi said Pope Francis’ death hours after his address at an Easter Sunday Service at the Vatican should be a lesson to all that death can come at anytime.
He therefore urged world leaders to emulate the late Pope’s message of mercy for the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants and the forgotten.
According to him, “I was saddened to hear of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, monday morning.
“I send my most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Catholic Church and the Christians.
“He was indeed the Pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten. He was an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity.
“He was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, where he consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions.
“I urged World leaders and especially Nigeria’s political leaders to honour him not with words alone but with action: by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person”, Ajadi said in the statement he personally signed on Monday to mourn the passing of Pope Francis.
