By OBSERVERS TIMES
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has clarified that his recent trip to the Vatican for the inauguration ceremony was a “deeply solemn and reflective visit” with no political undertones.
In a statement released on Monday via X, Obi emphasized that his attendance was consistent with his practice of observing significant global ceremonies and should not be politicized.
“My participation in the inauguration ceremony was in line with my previous witnessing of inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world — this was no exception,” Obi stated. “Such occasions carry profound moral and spiritual significance. This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation.”
Obi also clarified that he did not attend the Papal Audience and therefore did not meet Pope Francis personally, as those audiences are reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats.
Instead, Obi urged Nigerians to focus on the Pope’s homily, which called for a united fight against poverty and the promotion of brotherhood across ethnic, political, and religious divides.
“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi said. “The deeper value of the gathering should not be seen in ceremonial participation but in the willingness of attendees to act on the Pope’s message.”
He specifically highlighted the Pope’s emphasis on combating corruption as a crucial step towards building societies that prioritize education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure.
“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. These should be our major concern and the lasting message we carry home from the Vatican,” Obi asserted.
Obi concluded by calling on Nigerian leaders to commit to building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous nation.
His statement follows a brief encounter with President Bola Tinubu and former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi at the Vatican ceremony, which drew attention on social media. The meeting, shared by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, occurred during the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV, attended by global dignitaries.
