Peter Obi Explains Absence at Buhari’s Burial

Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has explained his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, citing unavoidable logistical challenges that prevented him from reaching Daura, Katsina State, on the day of the funeral.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Obi said he had intended to travel to Daura immediately after a condolence visit to the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State but was unable to do so due to circumstances beyond his control.

“Yesterday morning, after a condolence visit to the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, I tried to be in Daura, Katsina State to attend the burial of our late President Muhammadu Buhari, but all my efforts proved abortive, due to the logistical challenge beyond my control,” Obi said in the statement.

He added that he promptly reached out to a member of the late president’s family to convey his regrets, and received a gracious response acknowledging the situation. “I made a promise to come today,” he said.

True to his word, Obi traveled to Daura on Wednesday to pay his last respects. He was accompanied by Senators Ireti Kingibe and Okey Ezea, as well as Dr. Tanko Yunusa, the national coordinator of the Obidient Movement.

At the solemn gathering, he joined other national leaders including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State.

In his tribute, Obi reflected on a personal encounter he had with Buhari during the 2022 presidential campaign season.

“I recall vividly meeting with President Buhari in 2022 during my campaign. He said to me: ‘Peter, you seem to be everywhere and loved by the people. And I wish you the best, please, if you win, do not forget the poor,’” Obi said.

“That moment has been the thought I have had since the news of his demise. His concern for the poor should remain a reminder to us all,” he added.

Obi concluded his statement by extending prayers and condolences to the families of both President Buhari and the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, whose deaths were announced within days of each other.

“May the Almighty God, who has called both our late President and the Awujale of Ijebuland to eternal rest, grant them peace, and comfort their families and indeed our dear nation, as their passing is a deep loss to Nigeria. May their legacies of service and dignity never be forgotten,” Obi said.

President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on July 13 at the age of 82, was buried on Tuesday in a private ceremony at his Daura residence, in the exact spot where he often sat, in accordance with his personal wishes.