Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has clarified that his recent trip to the Vatican was purely spiritual and should not be misinterpreted as a political engagement.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Obi stated that his participation in the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV was in keeping with his long-standing practice of attending major global events of moral and spiritual significance.
“I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit,” he wrote.
“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.”
Obi emphasized that the occasion should not be politicized.
“This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation,” he added.
A photo circulating from the event showed Peter Obi alongside President Bola Tinubu and former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, sparking speculation online.
Clarifying further, Obi explained that while he did not attend the Papal Audience—an exclusive session for heads of state and diplomatic corps—he found the Pope’s homily to be the most spiritually enriching part of the event.
“What should truly command our attention is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” Obi said, referencing the Pope’s call to confront poverty and foster unity across ethnic, political, and religious lines.
He concluded by urging Nigerian leaders to embrace genuine reform and tackle corruption as a first step toward national development.
“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 said.
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