Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, on Tuesday, visited Daura, Katsina State, to pay his final respects to Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13.
Obi, who had initially planned to attend the burial ceremony on Monday, said his efforts were thwarted by unforeseen logistical challenges following a condolence visit to the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State. He, however, communicated with the Buhari family and assured them of his visit the following day.
True to his word, Obi arrived in Daura on Tuesday, accompanied by Senators Ireti Kingibe, Okey Ezea, and Obidient Movement National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko. The delegation joined other prominent dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, among others.
Reflecting on a memorable moment from the 2022 campaign trail, Obi recounted a heartfelt exchange with the late President Buhari.
“He said to me: ‘Peter, you seem to be everywhere and loved by the people. And I wish you the best. Please, if you win, do not forget the poor,’” Obi recalled. “That moment has been on my mind since the news of his passing.”
The former Anambra State governor also offered prayers for both Buhari and the Awujale of Ijebuland, noting that their deaths represent significant losses to Nigeria.
“May the Almighty God, who has called both our late President and the Awujale of Ijebuland to eternal rest, grant them peace and comfort their families, and indeed our dear nation,” Obi said.
He added that the legacies of service and dignity left behind by both leaders must never be forgotten.
