Peter Obi Urges Against Politicizing His Visit to the Vatican…Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has called for a halt to any attempts to politicize his recent visit to the Vatican. Obi, who attended the funeral ceremony for the late Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, has made it clear that his presence at this religious event was solely a spiritual and personal gesture, not a political maneuver.
Obi, a devout Catholic and a Knight of St. Gregory, joined a host of global leaders and dignitaries in paying respects to Pope Francis, who was deeply revered for his humility, advocacy for the marginalized, and his calls for justice and peace. The event, a solemn occasion marking the passing of one of the most influential religious figures of the modern era, saw Obi reflecting on the Pope’s legacy and the profound impact his leadership had on the world. Obi described Pope Francis as a “moral light” in a world often plagued by inequality, corruption, and indifference. According to Obi, the Pope’s life and work exemplified the values of justice, compassion, and service to humanity, which he believes all leaders, particularly in Africa, should seek to emulate.
However, Obi’s visit to the Vatican has drawn mixed reactions in Nigeria, with some questioning the timing and purpose of his participation in the ceremony, given the upcoming 2027 presidential election. Critics have suggested that his attendance could be seen as an attempt to boost his political image, while others have voiced concerns about the potential use of religious platforms for political advantage. In response, Obi has firmly stated that his presence at the Vatican was not connected to his political ambitions. He stressed that it was a moment for personal reflection and a chance to honor the life of a man who dedicated his entire life to serving others, particularly the poor and vulnerable.
Obi further emphasized that he had no intention of using the solemn occasion for political purposes and urged Nigerians to separate matters of faith and politics. His attendance at the event, he argued, was an expression of his respect for Pope Francis’s values and his belief in the importance of integrity in leadership. He called on all leaders, especially those in Nigeria, to focus on service to the people, and to remember the true essence of leadership, which lies in compassion, humility, and commitment to the well-being of citizens.
The Labour Party, in turn, came out in defense of Obi, rejecting any insinuation that his visit to the Vatican was politically motivated. The party’s spokesperson, Yunusa Tanko, was quick to address accusations that Obi’s engagement with religious institutions was part of a political strategy. Tanko condemned these claims, labeling them as baseless and malicious. According to Tanko, Obi’s involvement in religious activities is rooted in his faith and desire to promote moral leadership, rather than in any political scheme. He emphasized that the former governor’s participation in religious events is consistent with his longstanding commitment to advocating for ethical leadership and moral governance in Nigeria.
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As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, Obi’s call for the de-politicization of religious visits reflects a broader desire to move away from the usual politicking that often surrounds such events. He has consistently argued for a political culture where leaders put the welfare of the people first, rather than using religion or other platforms to gain political leverage. For Obi, leadership should not be about personal gain, but about serving the greater good of society and addressing the needs of the most vulnerable citizens.
In his remarks following the event, Obi reaffirmed his dedication to building a leadership model based on love, empathy, and service. He urged all political leaders to remember that true leadership lies in walking with the people, prioritizing their needs, and working with integrity to achieve positive change. Obi’s message resonated with many who share his vision for a better Nigeria, and he continues to advocate for a politics of conscience that prioritizes the well-being of the people above all else.
Through his visit to the Vatican, Obi not only honored the life of Pope Francis but also reinforced his belief in the importance of ethics and service in leadership. As Nigeria looks ahead to the 2027 elections, Obi’s message serves as a reminder of the values that should guide those who aspire to lead the country: humility, service, and a deep commitment to the people’s welfare.
