Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has explained why he did not meet Pope Leo XIV personally during the special mass held at the Vatican on Sunday.
Obi attended the inauguration ceremony of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome and new head of the Roman Catholic Church. The event drew global dignitaries, including Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who was among the few guests allowed personal interaction with the Pope.
Following the event, some loyalists of the government mocked Obi on social media, suggesting it was ironic that a devout Catholic like him was unable to meet the Pope, while President Tinubu, a Muslim, received a personal greeting.
Responding to the commentary, Obi took to social media to clarify that only a select group of Very Very Important Persons (VVIPs)—specifically heads of state and accredited diplomats—were granted access to the private Papal Audience.
In his statement, Obi wrote:
“Back from the Vatican
I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit. 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.
“Such occasions carry profound moral and spiritual significance. This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation.
After the inaugural Mass, I did not attend the Papal Audience and therefore did not have the opportunity to meet the Holy Father personally. That honour was reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats. For those who desire such an encounter, the Papal Audience continues traditionally.
“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily, particularly his urgent call to fight poverty and promote a spirit of brotherhood that transcends ethnic, political, and religious boundaries. The deeper meaning of the gathering lies not in ceremonial gestures, but in whether those present internalised his message and will return with the resolve to act.
“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. May we, in whatever station we occupy, rise to the task of building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous nation.”
Meanwhile, a video circulating online captured a moment from the same event, showing Seyi Tinubu, son of President Tinubu, being stopped from approaching the Pope during the greeting session. While President Tinubu exchanged pleasantries with the pontiff, his son was directed away by Vatican officials.
Seyi Tinubu has accompanied his father on several international trips since May 2023, raising ongoing public questions about his presence at official state events despite holding no government role.
