The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has clarified that his recent visit to the Vatican was not politically motivated.
Obi was seen in Rome on Sunday at the installation Mass of Pope Leo XIV, where he reportedly met with President Bola Tinubu and former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi.
Addressing public speculation on Monday via a post on X, Obi emphasized that the visit was personal and spiritual, not political.
“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 attendance at inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world — this was no exception,” Obi wrote.
“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.
What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily,” he added.
Obi urged the public to focus on the spiritual essence of the event rather than interpreting it through a political lens.
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… pic.twitter.com/eVOnkLrAU3
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) May 19, 2025
