Insight: Peter Obi Shares Buhari’s Final Words of Advice as He Pays Tribute in Daura, Katsina State

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, has opened up about a poignant conversation he had with the late President Muhammadu Buhari during the heat of the campaign season. Obi, who finished third in the tightly contested race, recounted the former President’s heartfelt appeal for the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

While addressing journalists after paying a condolence visit to Buhari’s family at their residence in Daura, Katsina State, Obi reflected on his previous interaction with the former leader. He noted that their discussion left a lasting impression on him, especially Buhari’s parting words, which he continues to carry with deep conviction.

According to Obi, during a private meeting held while he was consulting key national figures as part of his presidential campaign, President Buhari looked him in the eye and said, “Please care for the poor Nigerians.” That single statement, Obi revealed, has remained etched in his memory, symbolizing Buhari’s enduring concern for the marginalized and underserved segments of Nigerian society.

Obi made this revelation while speaking to the press after he had extended his sympathies to the bereaved family of the late statesman, who was laid to rest on Tuesday in his hometown of Daura. The former Anambra State governor expressed deep respect for Buhari, acknowledging the significant role he played in shaping modern Nigeria. He praised the former president for doing his best for the country, especially within the limits of his position and the immense pressures of national leadership.

The atmosphere in Daura was both solemn and reflective, as dignitaries and ordinary Nigerians gathered to honor a man who had held the reins of the country during two distinct eras of its history, first as a military Head of State in the 1980s, and later as a democratically elected President for two consecutive terms from 2015 to 2023.

President Buhari passed away on Sunday in London, United Kingdom, at the age of 82. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political history. His body was flown back to Nigeria and interred in accordance with Islamic rites, with national and regional leaders turning out to pay their last respects.

Obi’s tribute highlighted the former president’s emphasis on discipline, simplicity, and his unwavering concern for the disadvantaged. Reflecting on Buhari’s legacy, Obi remarked that regardless of political differences, Buhari’s message about prioritizing the poor continues to resonate strongly and should remain a guiding principle for leaders moving forward.

Observers say the encounter between the two men, one a former military general and two-term president, the other a technocratic reformist and businessman, was emblematic of a rare moment of mutual respect across political lines. Obi’s visit, and his recollection of that conversation, also serve as a reminder of the human dimensions of politics and leadership.

During the campaign trail in 2022 and early 2023, Obi frequently positioned himself as a candidate focused on good governance, economic revival, and people-centered policies. His recounting of Buhari’s plea adds another layer to his political narrative, particularly as he continues to engage in national discourse following the election.

The Labour Party’s flag bearer expressed hope that future leaders will not lose sight of the core responsibilities of governance, especially the need to uplift the most vulnerable citizens. He emphasized that the legacy of any public servant should be measured not just by infrastructure or political achievements, but by the extent to which they improve the lives of the less privileged.

Political analysts believe that Obi’s visit was not only a gesture of personal respect but also a strategic signal of statesmanship and national unity. By acknowledging the contributions and vision of a former leader with differing political ideologies, Obi demonstrates a level of political maturity that is often rare in Nigeria’s highly polarized landscape.

Beyond the political significance, Buhari’s passing has evoked diverse reactions across the country, with tributes pouring in from all corners. Many recall him as a leader who stood for integrity, anti-corruption, and personal austerity, even if his government faced criticism over economic challenges and national security struggles.

As Nigeria reflects on the life and times of Muhammadu Buhari, voices like Peter Obi’s help to shape the broader narrative around his legacy. The message he shared, a call to care for the poor, now stands as a symbolic reminder of the values Buhari hoped would endure beyond his presidency. Whether this call will inspire future leaders remains to be seen, but its echo has already found a place in the annals of Nigeria’s evolving political journey.