Why I was absent at Buhari’s burial — Peter Obi

Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last election, has explained why he was absent at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in a London hospital on Sunday after a brief battle with leukemia disease.

Peter Obi, El-rufai during condolence visit to late Buhari’s family

Obi in a statement on Wednesday, said after a condolence visit to the family of late Awujale of Ijebuland in Ijebu Ode, he tried to be in Daura to attend the burial of Buhari, but all efforts proved abortive, due to the logistical challenge beyond his control.

The former governor of Anambra State said following the logistical issue, he immediately reached out to a member of Buhari’s family explaining the situation, which the individual graciously replied that it was quite understandable.

He also recounted his encounter with late president Muhammadu Buhari in 20222 during his presidential campaign.

Obi recalled how Buhari told him never to forget the poor if he should win the election.

The statement reads: “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.”

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