I couldn’t attend Buhari’s bûrial because dignitaries were present — Peter Obi breaks silence

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has given reasons for missing the burial ceremony of former President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday in Daura, Katsina State.

Obi’s absence at the high-profile event drew criticism from some quarters, given the presence of many other political figures.

Addressing the issue, the former Anambra Governor said he was unable to secure a flight to Katsina in time for the ceremony.

However, he visited Daura on Wednesday to offer condolences to the late President’s family.

Obi while speaking with Arise TV, said: “It was difficult to come yesterday (Tuesday) because there was no flight.

“Even if there was a flight, you couldn’t land in Katsina Airport. It was all closed, because there was a lot of dignitaries.

“Mourning continues until tomorrow. So, whoever comes today and tomorrow, is still part of the mourning.”

The former Anambra Governor also recalled his previous encounters with Buhari, noting that during his presidential campaign, the late leader had advised him to prioritise the well-being of Nigeria’s poor.

He said: “I had the opportunity of meeting him while I was campaigning, and I remember his words to this day: ‘Please care for the poor Nigerians’. That’s what I always remember.

“And I believe he did his best within his capacity. I remember vividly his sincere appeal for fighting and caring for the poor.”