Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined global dignitaries, clergy, and mourners at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to pay his final respects to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
The solemn lying-in-state ceremony marked the beginning of events leading up to the funeral scheduled for Saturday, April 26.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi described the occasion as a moment of deep reflection. He paid tribute to Pope Francis’ legacy of humility, service, and unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalised.
“Pope Francis was more than a Pontiff; he was a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference. His life was a testament to leadership as a sacred duty, one rooted in compassion, truth, and service to the poor and marginalised,” Obi wrote.
He also recalled his personal encounters with the Pope and his involvement in Scholars Occultantes, an international think tank founded by Pope Francis during his time as Archbishop. The group focuses on ethical leadership and truth-driven social transformation.
Obi urged leaders across Africa to emulate the late Pope’s values of justice, peace, and human dignity.
“May Pope Francis’ soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy live on in all who seek to serve humanity selflessly,” he concluded.
The Holy See Press Office confirmed that the funeral will take place at 10 a.m. on April 26 in St. Peter’s Square.
