Obi Says Vatican Visit Non-Political, Urges Action on Pope’s Call for Reform
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has returned from a visit to the Vatican where he attended the recent inauguration ceremony organised by the Holy See. Obi described the trip as a personal and reflective experience, urging that it not be politicised.
In a statement posted Monday on his official X handle, Obi said his attendance at the event should be understood within the context of his long-standing engagement with global ceremonies, adding that the visit carried “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,” he stated.
Obi also clarified that he did not have a personal audience with Pope Francis, noting that such meetings were strictly reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats.
Instead, he highlighted the importance of the Pope’s homily, which he described as a call to action for global leaders to tackle poverty, corruption, and division.
“What should truly command our attention is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi said. “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 concluded his remarks by calling on Nigerian leaders to embrace values of justice, compassion, and national unity, urging them to prioritise moral integrity over ceremonial appearances.
Obi was among several Nigerian dignitaries present at the Vatican, including President Bola Tinubu and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi. The trio was seen briefly exchanging pleasantries during the installation Mass, an interaction that sparked conversations online after images were shared by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga.
Despite the public attention the encounter drew, Obi maintained that his participation was strictly spiritual and non-political.