Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified why he was absent at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, citing flight disruptions and the temporary closure of the Katsina airport.
Obi addressed journalists on Wednesday after paying a condolence visit to the late president’s family in Daura, Katsina State. Buhari, who died on Sunday in London, was buried on Tuesday with full military honours at his residence in Daura.
“There was no flight access. Katsina airport was closed due to the high number of dignitaries, and planes couldn’t land,” Obi said. “But mourning isn’t just about the burial day. It continues, and visiting today still reflects that respect.”
Obi emphasized that his visit, though delayed, was driven by genuine regard for Buhari, whom he recalled meeting during the 2023 campaign.
“I remember vividly when I met him. He told me, ‘Please care for poor Nigerians.’ That message stuck with me,” Obi added. “I believe he did his best within his capacity, especially in prioritizing the welfare of the poor.”
His visit, however, has sparked criticism from former presidential aide Reno Omokri, who accused Obi of acting only after public backlash.
“Going to Daura a day after Buhari’s burial because of social media pressure is medicine after death,” Omokri wrote on Facebook. “The message to Arewa has already been passed and understood.”
Omokri had earlier criticized Obi for attending a political event in Ilorin on the same day Buhari was buried, questioning his judgment and timing.
