- Safiu Kehinde
The 2023 Labour Party’s Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has mourned the passing of Pope Francis, describing the late Catholic Pontiff as a moral compass in a troubled world.
NPO Reported that the the renown religious leader passed away in the early hours of Monday at the age of 88.
In a condolence message posted on his official X handle, Obi, expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the clergyman.
He held that the death of Pope Francis marks the end of a significant era in the spiritual and moral leadership of not only the Catholic Church but also the wider global community.
Reflecting on his personal encounters with the late Pope, Obi said he embodied the virtues of faith, hope, and compassion.
The former Anambra state governor lauded the Pope’s commitment to the poor, his advocacy for justice and human dignity, and his unrelenting call for peace and unity in an increasingly fragmented world.
Obi highlighted the Pope’s legacy in encouraging a more compassionate and just society through the instrumentality of education and moral guidance.
He extended his condolences to the Universal Church on behalf of himself, his family, and millions of Nigerians inspired by the Pope’s life and teachings.
He prayed for the eternal repose of the Pope’s soul and for divine guidance upon the Church he shepherded with love and humility.
The post read; “I received with profound sorrow the news of the passing of the Holy Father, Pope Francis. His death marks the end of another era in the spiritual and moral leadership of the Catholic Church and the wider world.
“Throughout his life and pontificate – during which I had the privilege of meeting him on three occasions – Pope Francis embodied the virtues of faith, hope, and compassion.
“He led with humility, spoke with wisdom, and acted with moral courage. He constantly strove to draw humanity closer to the ideals of peace, justice, and love.
“His deep concern for the poor, his steadfast advocacy for moral leadership, and his defence of human dignity earned him the admiration of people across all faiths and nations.
“As a member of the Scholas Occurrences Foundation, founded by Pope Francis, I deeply appreciate his belief in education, dialogue, and youth empowerment as vital instruments for building a more just and compassionate world.
“Pope Francis devoted his life to the service of God and humanity. His legacy will live on not only in the hearts of the faithful but also in the global conscience he helped shape with grace, clarity, and conviction.
“In an age marked by division and uncertainty, his voice remained a steady call to unity, mercy, and justice.
“On behalf of myself, my family and millions of Nigerians who found inspiration in his teachings and example, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the universal Church.
“May God, in His infinite mercy, grant eternal rest to his gentle soul and guide the Church he so lovingly shepherded.”