Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi has disclosed what the late former president Muhammadu Buhari told him while he was campaigning for presidency.
He stated that the former military leader advised him to care for people experiencing poverty.
Speaking at the third-day Islamic prayer held in Katsina State in honour of the former president, Obi said: “I had the opportunity of meeting him while I was campaigning. And I remember his words till today, ‘please care for the poor Nigerians’.
“That’s what I always remember. And I believe that he did his best within his capacity,’’ Obi added.
Obi said the encounter with the late former president left a lasting impression on him, especially Buhari’s sincerity in appealing for better welfare for vulnerable Nigerians..
Reflecting on the late president’s legacy, Peter Obi emphasised the importance of selfless service to the country and agreed with public views on Buhari’s simplicity and commitment to the poor.
“Of course. Like I said, I am not close to him. I only met him during my campaign. And I remember vividly his sincere appeal for fighting and caring for the poor,” he said.
The federal government’s delegation to the prayer was led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message describing Buhari’s passing as a “great loss”, saying he would “truly be missed.”
Recounting his unsuccessful efforts to participate in the funeral event as well as his encounter with the late president, Peter Obi sain a post on his X page:
“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.
“I immediately sent a message to a member of late President Buhari’s family explaining my situation. He graciously replied that it was quite understandable, and I made a promise to come today.
“Today, accompanied by Senators Ireti Kingibe, Okey Ezea, and Obidient National Coordinator Dr. Tanko Yunusa, I was in Daura with Vice President Shettima, Former Vice President Atiku, Senate President Akpabio, Governor Radda of Katsina, Governor Zulum of Borno State, and many other dignitaries, to pay our last respects to the late President Muhammadu Buhari and to console his family.
“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.”
“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.
“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. -PO“
Top government officials, Islamic clerics, and other dignitaries, including the former Attorney-General of the Federation and the Chief of Army Staff, were also present at the prayer.
Though the formal three-day prayers have concluded, Islamic clerics are expected to continue with extended prayers for seven more days, in line with Islamic tradition and an agreement between the family, the Katsina State Government, and the presidency.
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