Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has clarified that his presence at the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican was strictly non-political and rooted in personal conviction and tradition.
Obi, who was seen at the event in Rome alongside former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and later with President Bola Tinubu, said his attendance was consistent with his history of witnessing global inaugurations and ceremonial occasions of moral and spiritual importance.
In a post on X, the former Anambra State governor emphasized the need to keep such moments free of political interpretations. “This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation,” he wrote.
Obi noted that he did not attend the Papal Audience and therefore did not meet Pope Leo XIV personally, as such an honour was designated for heads of state and accredited diplomats.
Reflecting on the Pope’s homily, Obi highlighted its central call—to confront poverty and foster unity beyond political, religious, and ethnic divides. He stressed that the true takeaway from the gathering should be the commitment to these ideals. “The fight against corruption is the essential first step toward building societies where resources are directed to what truly matters – education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure,” he said.
Meanwhile, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga explained how Obi came to interact with President Tinubu. According to him, Fayemi invited Obi to accompany him in greeting the president after the Mass. Fayemi reportedly said, “Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.”
Tinubu, in his typical light-hearted tone, replied, “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation.”
Obi responded, “Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”
What you should know
Peter Obi clarified that his attendance at the Vatican for Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration was not political but spiritual. He emphasized the importance of embracing the Pope’s message of unity and social justice over any political symbolism.
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