Why Peter Obi Missed Buhari’s Burial: ADC Presidential Hopeful Opens Up on Airport Closure and Travel Hurdles

 

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2023 general elections, has offered clarity on why he was visibly absent during the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday. The absence of the popular opposition figure at such a high-profile national event sparked a wave of online debate and criticism among Nigerians, many of whom expected his presence as a mark of national unity and respect.

Obi addressed the controversy during an interview with Arise Television on Wednesday, the day after the state burial held in Daura, Katsina State. According to him, logistical challenges, particularly the lack of available flights and a security lockdown at the airport, made it practically impossible for him to make the trip on the day of the ceremony.

“There was no flight on Tuesday that could take me to Katsina. The airspace around the area was closed to accommodate the large number of dignitaries who were expected,” Obi explained, clearly aware of the public reaction that followed his nonattendance.

His absence had drawn attention on social media, with many questioning the commitment of key opposition figures to matters of national importance. Others speculated whether there was a political undertone to his decision. Obi, however, was quick to dismiss any such notions, emphasizing that his respect for the late former President remains unwavering.

The former Anambra State governor made the journey the following day, arriving in Daura on Wednesday to personally extend condolences to the family of the late Nigerian leader. His visit was not only a symbolic gesture but also an attempt to douse any tension stirred by his earlier absence.

Speaking to reporters during his visit, Obi emphasized that mourning a national figure such as Buhari is not restricted to a single day. “The mourning continues until tomorrow. So, anyone who comes today or even tomorrow remains part of the mourning process,” he stated, reinforcing that his late appearance was still meaningful and respectful.

Katsina State, particularly Daura, had been heavily fortified for the burial ceremony. The closure of the Katsina airport, as confirmed by aviation sources and the security agencies overseeing the burial logistics, was a necessary measure to manage the influx of national and international guests, including sitting governors, ministers, and diplomats. These restrictions, while ensuring order, inadvertently obstructed access for other dignitaries like Obi.

Observers say this incident underlines the complicated dynamics of Nigerian politics, where actions, gestures, and even absences are often dissected and interpreted through political lenses. For Obi, who has maintained a consistent image of humility and national concern, the backlash seemed at odds with his known public conduct. His supporters have since defended him, highlighting his quick move to visit the family the next day, despite the prior day’s constraints.

The 2023 presidential candidate also used the moment to call for more unified and humane politics, where genuine constraints are not politicized. He remarked that respect for the dead and national unity should override party lines or political rivalries.

Many within the Labour Party have since come forward to echo Obi’s position, stating that the leadership remains committed to respecting Nigeria’s institutions and leaders, regardless of political affiliations. A senior member of the party who accompanied Obi to Daura noted that the visit was heartfelt and appreciated by Buhari’s family.

Despite the initial criticism, Obi’s eventual visit to Daura and his thoughtful words of condolence may have softened public perception. Nigerians remain divided in their responses, with some calling for better planning on the part of public figures, especially during national events, while others applaud his honesty and determination to pay his respects despite travel complications.

As the nation continues to reflect on the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari, events surrounding his burial serve as a reminder of the intersection between public service, protocol, and the sometimes-unforgiving nature of public scrutiny. Obi’s response, both in words and action, aims to shift the focus from criticism to compassion and understanding.