Pope Francis pssses away at 88, Tinubu mourns “tireless champion of the poor”
Pope Francis
Abdullateef Fowewe
Today, on Easter Monday, Pope Francis, the humble servant of God and guiding light for millions, passed away at the age of 88 at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta.
President Bola Tinubu in remark signed on Monday expressed profound sorrow, noting, “With a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions.”
He added, “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.”
The Nigerian leader praised the late pontiff’s lifelong dedication, “His Holiness served the Church until the end. In 2013, he stepped onto the global stage with a message of mercy, urging us to see the face of Christ in the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten.”
Tinubu highlighted Pope Francis’s advocacy for justice and the environment.
“He challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations,” said Tinubu.
Describing the Pope as “an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ, “love for God and love for humanity”.
However, Tinubu urged the world to honour his legacy through action, stressing, “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.”
He concluded with condolences, “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.”
Pope Francis was known for his progressive stance on social issues, relentless support for migrants, and efforts to build bridges between faiths and social classes. His death marks the end of a transformative papacy that reshaped the Catholic Church’s global role.
The Vatican has begun the solemn rites following his death, with cardinals expected to convene soon to honour the late pontiff and select his successor.
