Former Nigeria presidential candidate, Peter Obi has shared his journey to Rome to pay his last respect to Pope Francis who died on Easter Monday at 88.
Sharing this on his social media handle, the once Anambra Governor stated that he joined Francis Cardinal Arinze Global and other mourners to pay his last respect to the pontiff.
In his statement titled “Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World” Obi said “the solemn lying-in-state ceremony was a moment of deep reflection”.
“Today, I joined Francis Cardinal Arinze, global dignitaries, and thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, to pay my final respects to His Holiness, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.
“The solemn lying-in-state ceremony was a moment of deep reflection, as the world bids farewell to a man who embodied humility, simplicity, and selfless service.
“Pope Francis was more than a Pontiff; he was a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference. His life was a testament to leadership as a sacred duty, one rooted in compassion, truth, and service to the poor and marginalized. He lived for others, spoke for the voiceless, and reminded us all that leadership must be about lifting others, not self-exaltation,” he said.
Peter Obi also recounted how he had met with the pope only on three occasions which all left a lasting impression, according to him.
“I was blessed to meet Pope Francis on three occasions. Each encounter left a lasting impression. He radiated peace and inspired faith, and his presence was a quiet yet powerful reminder of the divine responsibility that leadership entails. His humility was infectious, his vision deeply human,” he stated.
Additionally , Obi urged political, religious, and community leaders, especially across Africa, to reflect on the Pope’s life and commit to justice, peace, and human dignity.
Bidding farewell to the Pontiff, Obi said it was not just a moment of mourning but conscience awakening in leadership and call to govern with love.
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