Obi Says Buhari Urged Him To ‘Please Care For Poor Nigerians’
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has revealed that late former President Muhammadu Buhari once appealed to him to prioritise the welfare of poor Nigerians.
Obi made this known on Tuesday while speaking at the third-day Islamic prayer held in Katsina State in honour of the late president.
“I had the opportunity of meeting him while I was campaigning,” Obi said. “And I remember his words till today, ‘please care for the poor Nigerians’. That’s what I always remember. And I believe that he did his best within his capacity.”
He described the brief encounter as deeply impactful, saying Buhari’s message of compassion left a lasting impression.
Obi also clarified why he was absent during the earlier prayers and burial ceremony, explaining that flight restrictions hindered his travel to Katsina.
“It was difficult to come here yesterday because there was no flight. And even if you have a flight, you can’t land in Katsina airport. It was all closed because there was a lot of dignitaries,” he said.
He noted that the mourning period continues and his visit remains within the time of official bereavement.
“So whoever comes the day after tomorrow is still part of the mourning,” Obi added.
Reflecting on Buhari’s legacy, Obi commended his simplicity and commitment to the poor, stressing the importance of selfless service to Nigeria.
“Like I said, I am not close to him. I only met him during my campaign. And I remember vividly his sincere appeal for fighting and caring for the poor.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima led the federal government’s delegation to the prayer, where he delivered President Bola Tinubu’s message describing Buhari’s death as a “great loss” and said he would “truly be missed.”
Dignitaries at the prayer included top government officials, Islamic clerics, former Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Chief of Army Staff.
Though the formal three-day prayer has ended, Islamic clerics will continue with extended prayers for another seven days, as agreed by the family, Katsina State Government, and the presidency.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
