Obi blames flight restrictions for absence at Buhari’s burial

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has explained his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, citing flight restrictions as the reason.

Speaking to journalists after paying a condolence visit to Buhari’s family in Daura, Katsina State on Wednesday, Obi said he was unable to fly into the state on Tuesday due to the closure of Katsina Airport for dignitaries attending the funeral.

“Yes, it was difficult to come here yesterday because there were no flights,” Obi said. “Even if you have a flight, you can’t land at Katsina Airport. It was all closed because there were a lot of dignitaries.”

He noted, however, that his visit was still within the mourning period and that paying respects does not have to be confined to the day of burial. “It is believed that the mourning continues today and tomorrow. Whoever comes today or tomorrow is still part of the mourning,” he added.

Obi said his decision to be in Daura despite the challenges was a sign of respect for the late president, who once urged him to prioritise the welfare of poor Nigerians.

“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,” he said. “And I believe he did his best within his capacity.”

Reflecting on the moment, Obi described Buhari’s death as a reminder of the importance of selfless service. “We all have to learn how to serve our country, knowing that one day we will be called back by our creator,” he said.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari died on Sunday in London and was buried on Tuesday at his residence in Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites.