Peter Obi, the previous standard bearer for the Labour Party, attended the lying-in-state ceremony alongside members of the Catholic church and international dignitaries, which was part of the proceedings to honor the late Pope Francis.
88-year-old
Pope Francis passed away.
On Easter Monday, signaling the conclusion of an epoch in the 266th pontificate.
Later, the Vatican stated that the late spiritual guide will be laid to rest on Saturday, April 26, 2025, and released a schedule of events preceding this day.
In the meantime, Obi is presently paying a courtesy visit to Rome, along with
Francis Cardinal Arinze
, one of the cardinal electors who will choose the new pope.
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In a blog post, he wrote
X
on Wednesday, Obi shared photos of himself at the funeral service, saying he chose to pay final respect to the late Pontiff.
He portrayed the departed as an ethical beacon in a world overshadowed by inequality and apathy, praising his guidance, dedication to honesty, and devotion to assisting the underprivileged and marginalized.
Earlier today, I stood alongside Francis Cardinal Arinze, international leaders, and numerous mourners inside St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to honor the memory of His Holiness, Pope Francis, following his passing on April 21.
“The solemn lying-in-state ceremony was a moment of deep reflection, as the world bids farewell to a man who embodied humility, simplicity, and selfless service.
Pope Francis transcended his role as merely a religious leader; he served as a beacon of morality amidst a world clouded by disparity and apathy. His existence embodied leadership as a divine responsibility, grounded in empathy, honesty, and dedication to those less fortunate. He dedicated himself to serving others, advocating for the silenced, and underscored that true leadership lies in elevating others rather than seeking personal glory.
After I was appointed as a member of Scholars Occultantes—an international group of thinkers he established during his tenure as Archbishop—I gained a true appreciation for what he represented. This organization, committed to honesty, ethical guidance, and societal change, provided me with profound insights into the intellectual and moral strength underlying his lessons.
Obi had the privilege of meeting Pope Francis
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The leader of the Labour Party stated that he was
fortunate to encounter Pope Francis
On three instances, revealing that each meeting had a profound impact on him.
The ex-Governor of Anambra stated that the deceased pope emanated peace and kindled faith, possessing a subtle but strong demeanor that underscores the heavenly duty associated with leadership for all.
Obi additionally praised the departed’s contagious modesty and profoundly humane outlook, encouraging African leaders to contemplate the Pope’s legacy and adhere to the principles he championed.
As we grieve this remarkable individual, I call upon political, religious, and community leaders, particularly those throughout Africa, to contemplate his life and pledge themselves to uphold the principles he cherished: justice, peace, and human dignity.
“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 stated.
