Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has clarified his absence at Tuesday’s burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, attributing it to logistical challenges caused by flight restrictions.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday after paying condolences to the Buhari family in Daura, the former Anambra State governor explained: “Yes, it was difficult to come here yesterday because there were no flights. Even if you had a flight, you couldn’t land at Katsina Airport. It was all closed because of the number of dignitaries attending the burial.”
Obi emphasized that honoring the deceased extends beyond the burial day itself: “It is believed that the mourning continues today and tomorrow. Whoever comes today or tomorrow is still part of the mourning.”
During his visit, Obi shared a poignant memory of his last meeting with Buhari during the 2023 presidential campaigns: “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.”
Reflecting on mortality and public service, Obi added: “We all have to learn how to serve our country, knowing that one day we will be called back by our creator.”
Buhari, who died Sunday in London at 81, was buried Tuesday in his Daura hometown with full military honors. The ceremony attracted top government officials including President Bola Tinubu, foreign dignitaries, and traditional rulers. Airspace restrictions were implemented to accommodate the high-profile attendees, affecting travel plans for some mourners like Obi.
