Linus Yusuf’s exceptional tolerance rekindles my hope for a better Nigeria
By Mustapha Atiku Ribadu
In a nation where ethnic and religious divisions have become increasingly pronounced, stories that celebrate unity, tolerance and shared humanity deserve not to be only told but celebrated.
They remind us that despite the challenges confronting our country, there are still Nigerians whose actions embody the ideals of peaceful coexistence and national unity.
My path and that of Linus Yusuf crossed about a decade ago through the Black Cap Movement, a platform of vibrant young Nigerians committed to democratic revival and the promotion of good governance.
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Since then, our relationship has grown beyond political association into one founded on mutual respect, loyalty and shared commitment to nurture a better Nigeria.
Through the years, Linus has remained one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic members of the movement. While many who initially identified with the organisation for personal gain or fleeting political interests quietly drifted away when their expectations were not met, Linus stood firm.
His loyalty has never been dictated by convenience, and his commitment has only become stronger with time. Such steadfastness is increasingly rare in today’s political environment, where loyalty is often measured by personal benefits rather than conviction and principle.
Linus has consistently demonstrated that true commitment is built on values rather than material rewards.
Recently, Linus made a personal decision that carries profound value and significance. He named his newborn son Mustapha after me.
To many, this may appear to be a simple expression of friendship. However, in the Nigerian toxic environment, it represents something much deeper. Mustapha is one of the revered bynames of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
For a man from a deeply rooted Christian family in Bajama Ward of Mayo-Belwa Local Government Area to choose such a name for his son reflects an extraordinary level of religious tolerance, mutual respect and broad-mindedness.
His decision transcends religious boundaries. It is a powerful statement that friendship, character and shared humanity are fundamental to sustainable relationships amongst Nigerians.
At a time when ethnic chauvinism, religious intolerance and sectional sentiments continue to threaten our national cohesion, Linus has demonstrated that Nigerians can still rise above primordial identities. His action reminds us that our diversity should unite us rather than divide us.
Nigeria’s greatest challenge has never been the diversity of its people. Rather, it has been our inability to appreciate diversity as a source of strength. Too often, ethnicity and religion are exploited for political advantage, breeding mistrust and undermining our collective aspirations.
The example set by Linus Yusuf offers a refreshing alternative. It demonstrates that tolerance is not merely preached; it is lived through everyday actions. By naming his son Mustapha, he has shown that mutual respect and genuine friendship can flourish irrespective of religious affiliation.
This singular gesture deserves recognition because it reflects the kind of Nigeria many of us aspire to build; a nation where competence is valued above tribe, where friendship is stronger than prejudice, and where our common humanity triumphs over artificial divisions.
If more Nigerians embraced the values of tolerance, humility, understanding and patriotism exemplified by Linus, our country would undoubtedly be a more peaceful and prosperous place. We would spend less time emphasising what separates us and more time focusing on what unites us.
Linus has not merely named a child; he has delivered a quiet but powerful lesson in nation-building. His action challenges all of us to look beyond ethnic and religious identities and embrace the ideals of unity, respect and peaceful coexistence.
As Nigeria continues its journey towards a stronger and more inclusive democracy, we need more citizens like Linus , individuals whose everyday choices inspire hope and demonstrate that unity in diversity is not just a national slogan but an achievable reality.
His exceptional tolerance rekindles hope that, despite our challenges, Nigeria can still become the united, peaceful and prosperous nation our founding fathers envisioned.
Ribadu, the state secretary of APC writes from Yola.
