Watch How Peter Obi Was Denied VVIP Entry at Papal Ceremony Amidst Social Media Stir [VIDEO]

 

A diplomatic misstep unfolded over the weekend at the Vatican City involving Nigeria’s former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, as he was denied access to the VVIP section during the high-profile papal inauguration ceremony of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.

The former Anambra State governor, widely regarded as the figurehead of Nigeria’s Labour Party and a prominent Catholic, found himself halted at a key security checkpoint. Vatican security officials, tasked with managing protocol for one of the world’s most ceremonial events, were captured on video politely declining Obi’s attempt to proceed into a restricted area. Their reasoning: a lack of proper accreditation.

Though Obi had reportedly traveled to Rome to show solidarity with Cardinal Francis Arinze, one of Africa’s most revered Catholic clergymen, the absence of a required VVIP invitation pass ultimately prevented him from being granted privileged access. The moment, though brief, has gained significant traction online, with video footage circulating widely on social media platforms.

Standing in traditional attire and appearing momentarily disoriented after being turned away, Obi’s visible discomfort provided fuel for critics and supporters alike to debate the incident’s implications. One user on X (formerly Twitter), Pastor Okezie J Atani, mocked the situation in a sharply worded post: “Instead of (Obidients) to concentrate on Peter Obi that was ‘BOUNCED’ from entering the event center even when he was the bag holder for Cardinal Arinze… Peter Gregory Onwubuasi Obi was CLEARLY told ‘YOU ARE NOT WELCOMED INSIDE.’”

Although no formal statement has yet been released by Obi or his media team, several sources close to the Vatican’s internal operations clarified the circumstances. According to those familiar with papal ceremony protocols, access to the VVIP gallery is granted solely on the basis of formal invitations. These are typically distributed weeks in advance and must be approved through the Holy See’s diplomatic channels. Regardless of rank or intent, all guests are subject to the same verification process.

The situation has ignited broader discussions among Nigerians, particularly between supporters of the Labour Party and those aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Some critics argue that the incident reveals a lack of preparedness or disregard for international protocols by Obi’s handlers. Others defend him, suggesting it was a misunderstanding blown out of proportion by political opponents.

While Obi stood outside the VVIP enclave, another Nigerian political figure was front and center in a more favorable light. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was seen shaking hands with Pope Leo XIV during the ceremonial meet-and-greet following the mass at St. Peter’s Square. Tinubu, alongside global leaders such as U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was part of the dignitaries who had brief interactions with the pontiff.

The presidency did not miss the opportunity to highlight this moment, releasing photos and subtle statements celebrating the encounter as a marker of diplomatic presence and global relevance. Critics of Obi were quick to juxtapose his denied entry with Tinubu’s successful handshake with the Pope, sparking further political polarization across online platforms.

For now, the incident remains a flashpoint in Nigeria’s ongoing political discourse, with social media acting as the primary battleground for interpretation. Whether Peter Obi will address the matter directly or allow it to fade remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that in the age of instant footage and viral opinion, no moment—however brief—goes unnoticed.

Instead of Ob!diots to concentrate on Peter Obi that was "BOUNCED" from entering the event center even when he was the bag holder for Cardinal Arinze...

Peter Gregory Onwubuasi Obi was CLEARLY told "YOU ARE NOT WELCOMED INSIDE" pic.twitter.com/QcxPHaGbbJ

— Pastor Okezie J. Atañi (@Onsogbu) May 19, 2025