Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the general elections of 2023, has returned from a somber trip to the Vatican, where he was present at the Holy See’s recent inauguration ceremony.
Obi underlined that his involvement in the ceremony was not political and should not be viewed through a political prism in a statement released on Monday via X, calling the journey profoundly introspective.
“I just got back from a very somber and introspective trip to the Vatican. “My involvement in the inauguration ceremony was consistent with my prior observation of swearing-ins, inaugurations, and official ceremonies worldwide — this was no exception,” he stated.
“Such events carry profound moral and spiritual significance,” he continued. Politics should not impact this since it was never a political occurrence. It’s best to set aside some time for introspection. Obi stated that he did not personally meet Pope Francis because he did not attend the Papal Audience. He clarified that only heads of state and authorized ambassadors were allowed to attend.
In reference to the Pope’s appeal to combat poverty and foster a sense of fraternity that transcends racial, political, and religious differences, Obi stated, “What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily.”
He emphasised that 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.
“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 stated.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians in positions of authority to commit to building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous nation.
Earlier on Sunday, President Bola Tinubu, Obi, and a former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, met briefly at the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV.
The encounter, which drew attention on social media after it was shared by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga on X, took place during the religious ceremony attended by dignitaries from around the world. Source=Naija news
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