Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has responded to criticism over his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, urging Nigerians not to turn national moments of mourning into platforms for political attacks.
Obi, who arrived in Daura on Wednesday to pay his respects to the Buhari family, explained that his inability to attend Tuesday’s event was due to logistical constraints, including lack of flight availability and airport restrictions tied to heightened security arrangements for visiting dignitaries.
“It was difficult to come yesterday (Tuesday) because there was no flight. Even if there was a flight, you couldn’t land in Katsina Airport—it was closed due to the presence of many dignitaries,” Obi said in an interview with Arise TV.
The former Anambra governor emphasised that true respect is demonstrated through intent and action, rather than public theatrics or media optics.
“Mourning isn’t a show. I am here today because I believe in honouring the dead respectfully—not because I want to be seen, but because it is the right thing to do,” he said.
Obi described the backlash against his absence as unfortunate and called for decency in public discourse, especially when dealing with sensitive matters like death and grief.
“Even in mourning, we must preserve our values as a people. Let us not politicise every gesture. Respect and sympathy should unite us, not divide us,” he added.
Obi’s visit to the Buhari residence in Daura was met with appreciation by local leaders and members of the late President’s family, who welcomed his gesture as timely and sincere.
Observers say Obi’s calm response reinforces his reputation for measured leadership and national unity, even in the face of politically motivated criticism.
