The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has reflected on a personal encounter with the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, highlighting a poignant message that left a lasting impact on him.
Speaking during the third-day Islamic prayer (Fidau) in Katsina State in honour of the late president, Obi recounted his brief but memorable meeting with Buhari during his presidential campaign. According to Obi, Buhari had urged him to “please care for the poor Nigerians,” a message that resonated deeply with him.
“I had the opportunity of meeting him while I was campaigning. And I remember his words till today‘please care for the poor Nigerians’. That’s what I always remember. And I believe that he did his best within his capacity,” Obi stated.
Obi emphasized the sincerity in Buhari’s appeal and said that despite not having a close relationship with the late president, the encounter shaped his perspective on leadership and the responsibility to protect vulnerable Nigerians.
Obi’s absence during the initial funeral prayers on Tuesday had sparked questions and speculation, especially on social media. Addressing the concerns, Obi explained that logistical challenges had prevented him from attending earlier.
“It was difficult to come here yesterday because there was no flight. And even if you have a flight, you can’t land in Katsina airport. It was all closed because there were a lot of dignitaries. And it is believed that the mourning continues till tomorrow. So whoever comes the day after tomorrow is still part of the mourning,” he explained.
Reflecting further on Buhari’s legacy, Obi agreed with public sentiments regarding the former president’s modesty and lifelong concern for the underprivileged.
“Of course. Like I said, I am not close to him. I only met him during my campaign. And I remember vividly his sincere appeal for fighting and caring for the poor,” Obi reiterated.
The federal government’s delegation at the prayer was led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s condolence message. In his remarks, Tinubu described Buhari’s passing as a “great loss” and noted that the late leader would “truly be missed.”
Other notable figures present at the prayer session included top government officials, senior Islamic clerics, and dignitaries such as the former Attorney-General of the Federation and the Chief of Army Staff.
Although the formal three-day Fidau prayers have concluded, Islamic religious leaders are expected to continue with additional prayers for another seven days, in keeping with Islamic tradition. This extension was agreed upon by the Buhari family, the Katsina State Government, and the Presidency.
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2023, was laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, drawing national and international tributes for his years of public service and commitment to modest leadership.
