Mr Peter Obi, 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party has described the late Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis as a moral compass in a troubled world.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra in a condolence message posted on his X handle, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Pope died at the age of 88.
According to Obi, 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; throughout his life and pontificate, during which I had the privilege of meeting him on three occasions, he embodied the virtues of faith, hope, and compassion.
He led with humility, spoke with wisdom, and acted with moral courage,” he stated.
Obi 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.
“His deep concern for the poor, steadfast advocacy for moral leadership, and his defence of human dignity earned him the admiration of people across all faiths and nations.
“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.”
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. (NAN)
