Obi Joins Cardinal Arinze in Rome, Urges Leaders to Emulate Pope Francis’s Legacy of Humility and Service

Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, joined Francis Cardinal Arinze, global dignitaries, religious leaders, and thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome to pay his final respects to His Holiness, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.

In a heartfelt tribute titled “Legacy of Light: What Pope Francis Taught the World,” Obi described the solemn lying-in-state ceremony as a moment of deep reflection for the entire world. He praised the late pontiff as a beacon of humility, simplicity, and selfless service whose moral vision transcended religious boundaries.

“Pope Francis was more than a Pontiff; he was a moral light in a world darkened by inequality and indifference,” Obi wrote. “He lived for others, spoke for the voiceless, and reminded us all that leadership must be about lifting others, not self-exaltation.”

Obi revealed a personal connection to the late pope through his involvement with Scholars Occultantes, an international circle of thinkers founded by Pope Francis during his time as Archbishop. According to Obi, the organisation’s mission—to promote truth, ethical leadership, and social transformation—offered a unique window into the intellectual and spiritual force behind the pope’s teachings.

“I was blessed to meet Pope Francis on three occasions,” he noted. “Each encounter left a lasting impression. He radiated peace and inspired faith, and his presence was a quiet yet powerful reminder of the divine responsibility that leadership entails.”

As he joined the world in mourning, Obi used the moment to call on leaders across Africa and beyond to emulate the pope’s values of justice, peace, and dignity for all. He urged political, religious, and community figures to lead with conscience, walk with the people, and govern with love.

“Let this not just be a moment of mourning, but a call to action,” he said. “May Pope Francis’ soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy live on in all who seek to serve humanity selflessly.”