What Buhari Told Me Before 2023 Election — Peter Obi

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has revealed a poignant exchange he had with former President Muhammadu Buhari during the 2023 election campaign season, recalling the elder statesman’s enduring concern for the Nigerian poor.

Speaking in Daura on Wednesday during a condolence visit to Buhari’s family, Obi reflected on their brief but memorable encounter in 2022.

“I recall vividly meeting with President Buhari in 2022 during my campaign,” Obi said. “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 described the moment as one that had remained in his thoughts since Buhari’s passing, noting how the former president’s concern for the vulnerable must continue to guide the conscience of Nigeria’s political class.

“His concern for the poor should remain a reminder to us all,” he added.

The former Anambra State governor had missed the burial ceremony of the former president in Daura on Monday due to what he described as “a logistical challenge beyond my control” following a condolence visit to the family of the late Awujale of Ijebuland in Ogun State.

“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,” Obi stated.

He explained that he immediately sent an apology to a member of Buhari’s family, who responded graciously. “I made a promise to come today,” Obi said.

On Wednesday, he fulfilled that promise, arriving in Daura with a delegation that included Senators Ireti Kingibe, Okey Ezea, and Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement.

At the Buhari residence, he joined other dignitaries such as Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina, and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno.

Obi’s recollection of Buhari’s words adds a human dimension to the legacy of the late former president, who died on Sunday, July 13, in London after a prolonged illness.

He was 82. Buhari was buried in Daura on Tuesday, July 15, in a state ceremony in accordance with his personal wishes — specifically at the central spot in his residence where he often sat in reflection.

Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1984 to 1985 and returned as a democratically elected president in 2015.

He was re-elected in 2019, serving two full terms before handing over to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023.

Throughout his tenure, Buhari was known for his austere lifestyle, populist rhetoric, and stated commitment to anti-corruption. His policies received mixed reviews, with critics pointing to economic hardship and worsening insecurity during his rule, while supporters praised his investment in infrastructure and social welfare schemes.

For Peter Obi, Buhari’s final words to him stand as a moral charge.

“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,” Obi said. “May their legacies of service and dignity never be forgotten.”