The funeral rites of Pope Francis especially the laying-in-state at the St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, attracted the attention of many Nigerians online. He is a Papal Knight
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi was among global dignitaries who paid their final respects to the late Pope Francis at the Vatican on Wednesday.
Obi, a Papal Knight and former Governor of Anambra State, attended the solemn lying-in-state ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. He was joined by 93-year-old Nigerian Cardinal, Francis Arinze.
Sharing his experience in a post titled “Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World” on X (formerly Twitter), Obi described the event as “a moment of deep reflection.”
“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,” he wrote.
“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.
“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 also revealed his connection to the late Pontiff through a think-tank founded by Francis.
“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,” he said.
“The organisation, dedicated to truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation, gave me a deeper insight into the intellectual and moral force behind his teachings.”
He urged African leaders to reflect on the Pope’s values.
“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.
“May Pope Francis’ soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy live on in all who seek to serve humanity selflessly.”
Pope Francis died on Sunday at the age of 87.