The Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has said that his participation in the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican should not be politicized.
Obi stated this in a post on X on Monday upon his return from the Holy See, stressing that the visit was spiritual and aligned with his tradition of attending significant global events.
According to him, while he did not attend the Papal Audience, which was reserved for heads of state and diplomatic representatives, the spiritual depth of the event lay in the Pope’s message, not in ceremonial interactions.
The former Anambra State governor pointed out the Pope’s call to fight poverty and promote a spirit of brotherhood beyond ethnic, political and religious divides, emphasising the moral responsibility of leaders to focus on genuine reform.
“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.
“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,”;; he wrote.
