Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate and former Governor of Anambra State, on Wednesday joined global dignitaries at St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to pay his final respects to the late Head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis.
Obi, a Papal Knight, attended the solemn lying-in-state ceremony alongside 93-year-old Nigerian Cardinal, Francis Arinze.
In a reflective post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, titled “Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World”, Obi recounted the emotional experience and paid tribute to the late Pontiff.
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He wrote: “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 21 April.
“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 beacon 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 marginalised.”
Obi further revealed his personal connection to the late Pope, recalling his time as a member of Scholars Occultantes, an international circle of thinkers founded by Pope Francis during his tenure as Archbishop.
Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World
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… pic.twitter.com/dF9nPnTSrU
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) April 23, 2025
“The organisation, dedicated to truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation, offered me a deeper understanding of the intellectual and moral depth of his teachings,” Obi stated.
“I was blessed to meet Pope Francis on three occasions. Each encounter left a lasting impression. He radiated peace, inspired faith, and led with a humility that was truly infectious.”
As the world mourns the passing of a spiritual giant, Obi called on leaders across Africa—and beyond—to reflect on the Pope’s enduring legacy.
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“I urge political, religious, and community leaders, especially across Africa, to reflect on his life and commit to the values he upheld: justice, peace, and human dignity.
“Let this moment not be one solely of mourning, but a call to lead with conscience, walk with the people, and govern with love.
“May Pope Francis’ soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy live on in all who seek to serve humanity selflessly.”
