Peter Obi

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has clarified that his attendance at the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV at St Peter’s Square in the Vatican on Sunday was not politically motivated.

Obi made the clarification on Monday via a post on his official X handle (formerly Twitter), following public speculations that trailed his presence at the Vatican event where he was seen with former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and later with President Bola Tinubu.

According to Obi, his attendance was consistent with his longstanding practice of honouring international ceremonies and inaugurations that carry “profound moral and spiritual significance” and should not be subjected to political interpretations.

“This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation,” Obi stated.

The former Anambra State governor explained that he did not participate in the exclusive papal audience that followed the mass, which was reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats. “For those who desire such an encounter, the Papal Audience continues traditionally,” he added.

Obi also highlighted the importance of Pope Leo XIV’s homily during the Mass, especially his call to combat poverty and promote global brotherhood across political, ethnic, and religious lines. He described the Pope’s message as one that should inspire world leaders and citizens to take decisive action against injustice and corruption.

“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,” Obi noted.

He urged Nigerians to focus less on ceremonial optics and more on internalising the Pope’s moral exhortations to build a just and compassionate society.

Meanwhile, in a related development, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga recounted how former Governor Kayode Fayemi introduced Obi to President Tinubu during the Vatican event. According to Onanuga, Fayemi jokingly told the president, “Mr President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the pope with your presence.” President Tinubu, in response, quipped, “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation.” Obi reportedly replied, “Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”

Obi’s clarification aims to dispel the growing narrative that his presence at the papal ceremony was politically aligned or symbolic of shifting alliances. He reaffirmed that his focus remains on moral and national development priorities.