The Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, on Wednesday joined His Eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze, global dignitaries and thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to pay his last respects to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.
Obi participated in the solemn lying-in-state ceremony, where the late Pontiff’s body lies in honour ahead of his funeral scheduled for April 26.
Speaking to the press shortly, Obi described Pope Francis as “a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference.” He hailed the late Pope’s legacy of humility, simplicity, and commitment to the poor and marginalised, urging leaders across the globe, especially in Africa, to take a cue from his life of service. “Pope Francis lived for others, spoke for the voiceless, and stood firm in truth. He showed the world that leadership is a sacred responsibility to serve, not to be served,” Obi said.
Obi revealed that he came to truly appreciate what the late Pope stood for after his appointment as a member of Scholars Occultantes – an organisation founded and championed by the Pope during his time as Archbishop. Comprised of a private international circle of thinkers dedicated to truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation, the group provided Obi with deeper insight into the intellectual and moral force behind the Pope’s teachings.
Obi, who had the honour of meeting Pope Francis on three occasions, said the Pontiff’s personal witness left a lasting impression. “He radiated peace and inspired faith. His humility was infectious; his presence reminded you of the divine duty of leadership,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Obi urged political, religious, and community leaders to reflect on the Pope’s legacy and re-commit to values that promote justice, peace, and human dignity. “Let this moment not just be one of mourning but of resolution to lead with conscience, to walk with the people, and to govern with love.”
