JUST IN: Peter Obi Explains Why He Missed Buhari’s Burial

DDM News

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has clarified the circumstances that prevented him from attending the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, held in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Obi gave his explanation during the Fidau prayers organized in honour of the late Nigerian leader on Wednesday, a day after the burial.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Obi said his absence was due to logistical difficulties, specifically the unavailability of flights to the late president’s hometown.

“It was difficult for me to get to Daura yesterday,” Obi explained.

“There was no flight. Anyone who comes even tomorrow is still part of the mourning.”

Despite missing the main burial ceremony, Obi arrived in Daura on Wednesday alongside several other political dignitaries to pay their respects and condole with the family of the deceased.

Also present in Daura were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, among other prominent Nigerians.

The visiting dignitaries proceeded to the graveyard where the late president was laid to rest, joining clerics and residents in offering prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away earlier this week after a period of illness, was buried in accordance with Islamic rites within 24 hours of his death.

The burial took place on Tuesday amidst tight security and a heavy presence of political and traditional leaders from across the country.

The Fidau prayers held on Wednesday drew an even larger crowd, including top government officials, party leaders, and members of the international diplomatic community.

Peter Obi’s visit, though belated, was seen by observers as a mark of national solidarity that transcended political rivalry.

As one of the key opponents of Buhari’s party in the 2023 presidential elections, Obi’s presence reaffirmed the tradition of national unity in times of grief.

The former president, who ruled Nigeria between 2015 and 2023 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), left behind a legacy marked by both praise and criticism.

While some credited him for infrastructural development and anti-corruption efforts, others faulted his administration for rising insecurity and economic hardship.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier led the federal government delegation at the burial and Fidau prayers.

In his condolence message, Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot who served Nigeria with dedication.”

Obi, on his part, praised Buhari for his contributions to Nigeria’s development, even as he emphasized the need for continued prayers for the country and its leaders.

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