Obi Declares Vatican Visit Non-Political, Urges Nigerian Leaders To Embrace Pope’s Message of Reform

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has clarified that his recent trip to the Vatican for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV was not a political engagement.

He urged Nigerians, especially those in leadership, to reflect on the Pope’s call for justice, compassion, and the fight against corruption.

In a statement posted via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Obi described the visit as “solemn and deeply reflective,” stating that his participation in the ceremony should not be interpreted through a political lens.

“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,” Obi wrote.

He stressed that the trip had no political undertone and should be seen for what it truly represented, a moment of moral and spiritual introspection.

“This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation,” he added.

Obi also noted that he did not attend the Papal Audience nor meet the new Pope, explaining that the audience was reserved exclusively for heads of state and accredited diplomats.

“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor highlighted Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on fighting poverty, fostering unity, and promoting brotherhood beyond ethnic and religious divisions.

He called on Nigerian leaders to draw inspiration from these values and act accordingly.

“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,” Obi stated.

He further urged public officials and all those in positions of authority to recommit to building a more just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria.

Obi’s statement follows public interest in his presence at the Vatican, where he briefly met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, during the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV.

The encounter, captured and shared by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga on social media, drew widespread attention.

The inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was held at St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, and attended by world leaders, religious figures, and dignitaries from across the globe.