Pope’s Death After Easter Is ‘Sacred Return’ – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has described the passing of Pope Francis as a “sacred return to his Maker” owing to the timing of his death after Easter celebrations.

In a personal statement on Monday, Tinubu joined Catholics and Christians worldwide in mourning the 266th Pope, who passed away just a day after delivering the traditional Easter Sunday blessing at St. Peter’s Basilica.

His passing, coming just after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, is a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians,” Tinubu stated.
The Nigerian leader eulogised Pope Francis as “a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions.”

He recalled the Pope’s emergence on the global stage in 2013 with a message of mercy that urged people to recognise Christ in marginalised communities, refugees, migrants, and the forgotten.

Tinubu also made reference to the Pope’s advocacy for economic justice in developing nations and his consistent calls for peace in troubled regions around the world.

“He was an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity. In a time of division, he built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor.

“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.

“His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant. Through his pastoral letters, the Pope offered spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world. He charted a path of renewal for all humanity through his words and deeds,” he wrote.

Tinubu also noted the Pope’s environmental advocacy, describing him as “the world’s most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change.”

In his tribute, Tinubu referenced his own 2025 Easter Message in which he had expressed gratitude for the then-convalescing Pontiff.

“I was happy to watch his appearance to deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica.

“Alas, the Lord called him home a day after, making the world lose its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change. May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom.

“As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy. Let us 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.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Nigeria, I extend condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and the Christian faithful.

“May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest,” the Nigerian leader concluded.

Pope’s Death After Easter Is ‘Sacred Return’ – Tinubu is first published on The Whistler Newspaper