Why I didn’t meet Pope Leo XIV personally, Obi Speaks After Vatican trip

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has returned from a visit to the Vatican, where he attended the recent papal pope inauguration.

He described the trip as a “deeply solemn and reflective visit,” emphasizing that his presence was not politically motivated.

In a statement on X, Obi clarified that his attendance was “in line with my previous witnessing of inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world — this was no exception,” viewing them as occasions that “carry profound moral and spiritual significance.”

He urged that the event “was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics,” stating, “Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation.”

Obi also clarified that he did not attend the Papal Audience and therefore did not meet Pope Francis personally, as the audience was reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats.

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He highlighted the importance of the Pope’s homily, which called for combating poverty and fostering unity across ethnic, political, and religious lines.

Obi stressed that the true value of the gathering should not be seen in ceremonial participation but in the willingness of attendees to act on the Pope’s message, particularly in fighting corruption to build societies focused on education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure.

He called on Nigerian leaders to commit to building a just and prosperous nation.

He stated, “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.”

He concluded by calling on Nigerians in positions of authority to commit to building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous nation.