The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, on Wednesday joined other top political figures in Daura, Katsina State, to pay his final respects to Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away recently.
Obi, who was accompanied by Senators Ireti Kingibe, Okey Ezea, and the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, met with Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, and other dignitaries at the solemn gathering.
In a personal tribute, Obi recounted how he had initially planned to attend the burial on Tuesday after visiting the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. However, he said that logistical challenges prevented him from making the journey to Daura as intended. He noted that he sent a message to a member of President Buhari’s family, who graciously acknowledged the situation and welcomed his promise to visit the next day.
Reflecting on his relationship with the late President, Obi recalled a memorable moment during the 2022 campaign trail, when President Buhari told him: “Peter, you seem to be everywhere and loved by the people. I wish you the best. Please, if you win, do not forget the poor.”
He said those words have lingered with him since the news of the President’s passing, describing Buhari’s concern for the poor as a legacy that should guide the conscience of every Nigerian leader.
Obi prayed for the repose of both the late President and the Awujale of Ijebuland, whose deaths, he said, marked a significant loss for the country. He urged the nation to uphold the values of service and dignity embodied by the late statesmen.
President Muhammadu Buhari passed away earlier this week after a brief illness. His death has drawn condolences from across Nigeria and the international community, recognizing his influence in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey and national development.