The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has returned from a solemn visit to the Vatican, where he attended the recent inauguration ceremony hosted by the Holy See.

In a statement shared on Monday via his X handle, Obi described the visit as deeply reflective. He clarified that his attendance was not political and should not be viewed through a political lens.

“I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit,” he wrote. 

“My participation in the inauguration ceremony was consistent with my previous presence at similar global events. This was no exception.”

He emphasised that such occasions hold significant moral and spiritual value. 

“This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation,” he added.

Obi further clarified that he did not attend the Papal Audience and, therefore, did not meet Pope Francis personally, as the audience was reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats.

However, he urged Nigerians to focus on the message of Pope Francis, particularly his call to fight poverty and foster a sense of unity that transcends ethnic, political, and religious boundaries.

“What should truly command our attention is the content and moral force of the Pope’s homily,” Obi said.

He stressed that the real value of the Vatican gathering lies not in ceremony, but in the willingness of participants to act on the Pope’s message.

“The fight against corruption is the essential first step toward building societies where resources go to what truly matters—education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure,” he said.

“These should be our major concern and the lasting message we carry home from the Vatican.”

Obi concluded with a call to those in leadership positions to commit to building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous Nigeria.

Earlier on Sunday, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Peter Obi, and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi were briefly seen together at the installation Mass of Pope Leo XIV.

The encounter, captured and shared on social media by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, drew widespread attention as the three dignitaries joined other international figures at the religious ceremony.