The 2023 Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has returned from a solemn visit to the Vatican, emphasizing that his participation in the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV was not political and should not be interpreted through a political lens.
Obi, in a statement shared via his X handle on Monday, clarified that the visit was deeply reflective, spiritual and aligned with his tradition of attending significant global events.
He wrote, “I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit.
“My participation in the inauguration ceremony was in line with my previous witnessing of inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world — this was no exception.”
“Such occasions carry 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 added.
Obi explained that while he did not attend the Papal Audience, which was reserved for heads of state and diplomatic representatives, the spiritual depth of the event lay in the Pope’s message, not in ceremonial interactions.
“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi noted, referring to the Pope’s call to fight poverty and promote a spirit of brotherhood beyond ethnic, political, and religious divides.
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He emphasised that the deeper value of the gathering should not be seen in ceremonial participation but in the willingness of attendees to act on the Pope’s message.
“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.
“These should be our major concern and the lasting message we carry home from the Vatican,” Obi said.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians in positions of authority to commit to building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous nation.
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