Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a man whose simple lifestyle and deep concern for the poor left a lasting impression.
Speaking to journalists during the Third Day Prayers held in Buhari’s honour, Obi reflected on his encounter with the late president during his own campaign. He recounted a moment that, he said, remains etched in his memory.
“I had the opportunity of meeting late Muhammadu Buhari while I was campaigning,” Obi recalled, “and I remember his words till today. He said to me, ‘Please care for the poor Nigerians,’ and that is all I always remember. I believe he did his best within his capacity.”
Obi spoke of Buhari not just as a former military leader and civilian president, but as a man who embodied simplicity and offered a sincere appeal for justice and compassion, especially for Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens. According to him, those qualities are what should define leadership in the country.
He used the moment to encourage present and future leaders to reflect on their duties and mortality. “We have to all learn how to serve our country, knowing that one day we will all be called back by our creator,” Obi said.
In his view, Buhari’s commitment to fighting poverty and his concern for the underprivileged remain key elements of his legacy. “Buhari’s sincere appeal for fighting and caring for the poor” is, according to Obi, the perfect summary of a life dedicated to modesty and national service.
The solemn occasion came as Nigerians across the country continued to mourn the loss of the former president, who died on Sunday, July 13, in a London hospital following a brief illness at the age of 82.
Earlier on Tuesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a host of dignitaries received Buhari’s body at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina. From there, the remains were taken to Daura, his hometown, where he was buried in accordance with Islamic rites.
Thousands of mourners filled the streets and gathered at the late president’s residence to offer their final respects to the man many knew as a friend of the poor and a symbol of discipline and integrity.
What you should know
Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, recounted a personal meeting with the late President Muhammadu Buhari during which Buhari urged him to “care for the poor Nigerians.”
Obi praised Buhari’s simplicity and concern for the underprivileged, describing him as a leader who served with sincerity and a sense of purpose.
