Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has clarified the purpose of his visit to the Vatican, where he attended the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV.

In a statement on his verified X account on Monday, the former Governor of Anambra State, who described the trip as ?deeply solemn and reflective,? emphasised that his participation in the event was in line with his previous attendance at inaugurations and other official ceremonies around the world.

?My participation in the inauguration ceremony was in line with my previous witnessing of inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world, this was no exception.?

He stressed that the event held significant moral and spiritual value and should not be interpreted as a political gesture.

?This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics,? he noted, urging for moments like these to be reserved for ?quiet contemplation.?

Obi further disclosed that he did not attend the Papal Audience after the inaugural Mass, as the honour of meeting the Holy Father was reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats. He added, ?For those who desire such an encounter, the Papal Audience continues traditionally.?

Reflecting on the Pope?s homily, Obi urged Nigerians to focus on the essence of the message delivered by Pope Leo XIV, particularly the call to address poverty and foster a spirit of unity across ethnic, political, and religious lines.

?What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope?s homily, particularly his urgent call to fight poverty and promote a spirit of brotherhood,? he added. (Nigerian Tribune)

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