Real reason I didn’t attend Buhari’s burial – Peter Obi

Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has explained his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, attributing it to flight disruptions and restricted airspace.

Speaking during a condolence visit to Buhari’s family on Wednesday in Daura, Obi disclosed that despite his plans to attend the burial, his efforts were hindered by unavailable flights and the closure of Katsina Airport due to the influx of dignitaries.

“Yes, it was difficult to come here yesterday because there were no flights,” Obi said. “Even if you had a flight, you couldn’t land at Katsina Airport. It was all closed because of the number of dignitaries attending the burial.”

He, however, emphasized that mourning the dead goes beyond the burial day, noting that his visit was still within the accepted period of condolence. “It is believed that the mourning continues today and tomorrow. Whoever comes today or tomorrow is still part of the mourning,” he said.

Recalling his interaction with Buhari during the 2023 campaign season, Obi said the former president once appealed to him to focus on improving the lives of Nigeria’s poor. “I had the opportunity of meeting him while I was campaigning, and I remember his words to this day: ‘Please care for the poor Nigerians’. That’s what I always remember,” Obi stated.

He praised Buhari for doing his best within his capacity and reflected on the transient nature of power and life. “We all have to learn how to serve our country, knowing that one day we will be called back by our creator,” he added.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London on Sunday and was buried on Tuesday in his hometown, Daura, with full military honours. The ceremony was attended by several top government officials, traditional rulers, and foreign dignitaries.