Labour Party presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has returned from the Vatican, where he attended the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Obi emphasized that the visit was strictly spiritual and should not be interpreted through a political lens.
“I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit,” Obi stated. “My participation in the inauguration ceremony was in line with my tradition of attending significant global events — this was no exception.”
Obi reiterated that such moments hold moral and spiritual weight and are not political platforms. “Some occasions are best reserved for quiet contemplation,” he added.
Though he did not attend the Papal Audience, which was limited to heads of state and diplomatic representatives, Obi highlighted the true essence of the visit — the Pope’s homily. He praised the message’s emphasis on unity, poverty alleviation, and moral leadership beyond political and ethnic divides.
“What should truly command our attention is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi said. He underscored the importance of integrity in leadership, noting that the fight against corruption must come first in the push for social progress.
“The real task for leaders is to ensure that resources are channeled into what truly matters — education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure. These are the values and lessons we must bring home from the Vatican,” he concluded.
