Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has addressed his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, attributing it to logistical setbacks involving air travel and the temporary closure of Katsina airport.
During a condolence visit to the late president’s family in Daura on Wednesday, Obi explained the situation, stating: “No flight. They couldn’t land at Katsina’s airport. It was all closed because there were a lot of dignitaries, and it is believed that the mourning continues till tomorrow. So, whoever comes is still part of the mourning.”
“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 a 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,” the 63-year-old politician stated.
Obi extended his sympathies to the bereaved family, describing Buhari as a leader of integrity. He emphasized that their political disagreements did not diminish his personal respect for the late president’s service to the nation.
In his remarks, Obi also underscored the importance of unity and national reflection during periods of collective grief.
Critics had faulted Obi’s absence at the burial held in Daura, Katsina, on Tuesday.
However, the former Anambra governor said that he fulfilled his promise by visiting Daura on Wednesday, accompanied by Senators Ireti Kingibe and Okey Ezea, as well as the national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Tanko Yunusa.
“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 and console the family,” he said.
