Former presidential candidate Peter Obi paid tribute to the late Pope Francis at the Vatican in Rome, where thousands of Catholic faithful gathered to bid farewell to the pontiff. Obi was joined by Cardinal Francis Arinze at the solemn lying-in-state ceremony.

In a statement, Obi described Pope Francis as “a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference.” He added, “His life was a testament to leadership as a sacred duty, one rooted in compassion, truth, and service to the poor and marginalized.”

Obi revealed that he had the opportunity to meet Pope Francis on three occasions, each leaving a lasting impression. “He radiated peace and inspired faith, and his presence was a quiet yet powerful reminder of the divine responsibility that leadership entails,” Obi said.

The former governor of Anambra State also shared his experience as a member of Scholars Occultantes, an international circle of thinkers founded by Pope Francis. “The organisation, dedicated to truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation, gave me a deeper insight into the intellectual and moral force behind his teachings,” Obi explained.

Obi urged leaders to reflect on Pope Francis’ life and commit to the values he upheld. “Let this moment not just be one of mourning, but a call to lead with conscience, walk with the people, and govern with love,” he said. “May Pope Francis’ soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy live on in all who seek to serve humanity selflessly.”