‘He Urged Me to Care for the Poor’ – Peter Obi Shares Buhari’s Advice

Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has shared a heartfelt memory of his encounter with the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari, during his campaign trail. According to iReporter Online, Obi recounted that Buhari earnestly urged him to prioritize the welfare of Nigeria’s poor during their brief meeting.

Speaking during the third-day Islamic prayer session held in Katsina State in honour of the late leader, Obi stated, “I had the opportunity of meeting him while I was campaigning. And I remember his words till today — ‘please care for the poor Nigerians.’” According to iReporter Online, the encounter left a lasting impression on Obi, who acknowledged Buhari’s sincere concern for the vulnerable in society.

Despite not being close to the late president, Obi emphasized that Buhari’s message resonated with him deeply. “Of course. Like I said, I am not close to him. I only met him during my campaign. And I remember vividly his sincere appeal for fighting and caring for the poor,” he told mourners.

Reflecting further on Buhari’s legacy, Obi described him as a leader known for his simplicity and commitment to improving the lives of the less privileged, sentiments widely echoed by the Nigerian public. According to iReporter Online, he urged political leaders to emulate the late president’s selfless approach to governance.

The federal government’s delegation to the fidda’u prayer was led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s condolences and described Buhari’s death as “a great loss.” Dignitaries including top Islamic clerics, government officials, and military leaders also graced the event.

Although the formal three-day prayer session has concluded, Islamic clerics are expected to continue with additional prayers over the next week, in line with Islamic customs and agreements between the family, Katsina State Government, and the presidency.