In a rare public encounter abroad,
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and
ex-Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi shared a moment of cordiality during
the installation Mass of Pope Leo XIV in Rome on Sunday.
The three Nigerian statesmen were part of a global
assembly of dignitaries and religious leaders attending the solemn event at the
Vatican.
According to sources, Fayemi, a devout Catholic and
Papal knight, noticed President Tinubu seated among global leaders and
approached him. In a show of goodwill, he invited Peter Obi—also a Catholic and
Papal knight—to join him in greeting the Nigerian leader.
Upon reaching the President, Fayemi offered a
courteous remark:
“Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope
with your presence.”
President Tinubu, responding with characteristic
humour, said:
“I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian
Delegation.”
The exchange prompted laughter, with Peter Obi
responding in kind:
“Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”
The brief interaction, though informal, was
significant as it brought together key figures from Nigeria’s political
spectrum in a moment of unity and mutual respect, away from the usual partisan
tensions at home.
All three men are known for their deep ties to the
Catholic faith and were attending in personal and official capacities to honour
the new Pope.
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