Obi Joins Global Dignitaries At Pope’s Lying-In-State In Vatican City

Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, has  visited the Vatican today, joining a slew of international dignitaries to pay his respects to the late Pope Francis as he lay in state.

Obi, a Papal Knight, joined veteran Nigerian Cardinal Francis Arinze, 93, for the solemn ceremony at St Peter’s Basilica.

According to Ibrahim Umar, POMR Spokesman, Obi used his X handle to share his thoughts on the late Pontiff in an article titled “Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World.”

He described it as a time of “deep reflection, as the world bids farewell to a man who embodied humility, simplicity, and selfless service.”

He also praised Pope Francis as “a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference,” emphasising his commitment to helping the poor and marginalised.

“Pope Francis was more than just a Pontiff; he was a moral beacon in a world plagued by inequality and indifference.

“His life was a testament to leadership as a sacred duty, one founded on compassion, truth, and service to the poor and marginalised,” Obi said.

Obi also revealed his connection to the late Pope, which stemmed from his membership in the “Scholars Occultantes,” an international group of thinkers founded by Pope Francis while he was Archbishop.

He credited the organization with giving him “a deeper insight into the intellectual and moral force behind his teachings.”

He recounted his personal encounters with Pope Francis, noting the lasting impression the Pontiff made on him.

“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,” Obi said.

Obi urged leaders, particularly those in Africa, to reflect on Pope Francis’ life and commit to the values he championed.

Paying final respect to the late Pope

“Let this moment not just be one of mourning, but a call to lead with conscience, walk with the people, and govern with love,” he implored.

The Vatican is expected to announce details of Pope Francis’s funeral arrangements in the coming days.