Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has joined other dignitaries from across the globe in Rome to honour Pope Francis, describing the late pontiff as an enduring symbol of humility and leadership in service to humanity.
Obi, who made the journey to Rome to be part of the funeral rites, shared his sorrow over the Pope’s passing, emphasizing that the late Pontiff devoted his life to uplifting the poor and those without a voice.
In a touching message posted on 𝕏 titled “Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World,” Obi reflected on the invaluable lessons the Pope left behind for the world.
He wrote: “Today, I joined Francis Cardinal Arinze, global dignitaries, and thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, to pay my final respects to His Holiness, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. The solemn lying-in-state ceremony was a moment of deep reflection, as the world bids farewell to a man who embodied humility, simplicity, and selfless service.”
Continuing, he added: “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.”
“He lived for others, spoke for the voiceless, and reminded us all that leadership must be about lifting others, not self-exaltation.”
Obi recounted his experience at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, standing with Cardinal Francis Arinze and a gathering of mourners and world leaders, describing the occasion as deeply moving and a powerful reminder of the Pope’s lasting impact.
He also reflected on a personal bond with Pope Francis, having been part of Scholars Occultantes, an intellectual initiative founded by the Pontiff during his years as Archbishop.
“I came to truly appreciate what he stood for after my appointment as a member of Scholars Occultantes – an international circle of thinkers he founded during his time as Archbishop. The organisation, dedicated to truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation, gave me a deeper insight into the intellectual and moral force behind his teachings,” Obi stated.
Recalling their past encounters, Obi noted that he met Pope Francis on three separate occasions, each leaving a lasting impression. “He radiated peace and inspired faith, and his presence was a quiet yet powerful reminder of the divine responsibility that leadership entails. His humility was infectious, his vision deeply human,” he shared.
Obi then issued a heartfelt appeal to leaders both in Africa and around the world to emulate the Pope’s example.
“As we mourn this great soul, I urge political, religious, and community leaders, especially across Africa, to reflect on his life and commit to the values he upheld: justice, peace, and human dignity. Let this moment not just be one of mourning, but a call to lead with conscience, walk with the people, and govern with love,” he urged.
He concluded with a solemn prayer: “May Pope Francis’ soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy live on in all who seek to serve humanity selflessly.”
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