In a rare display of political civility, President Bola Tinubu, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Ekiti State governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi engaged in a friendly exchange during the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV in Rome on Sunday.
The interaction, which occurred amidst a gathering of global dignitaries, drew attention due to the contrasting political backgrounds of the three Nigerian leaders. Fayemi initiated the encounter by approaching President Tinubu, who was seated, and inviting Obi to join him in greeting the president.
“Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence,” Fayemi stated.
President Tinubu responded with a smile, saying, “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation.”
Obi, acknowledging the president’s remark, replied, “Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation,” eliciting laughter from those present.
The brief but significant exchange was particularly notable given the tense political climate in Nigeria following the 2023 presidential elections, in which Obi was a strong contender against Tinubu. Obi has been a vocal critic of the current administration.
Both Obi and Fayemi, who are devout Catholics and Papal Knights, were in attendance at the Vatican for the installation. The shared religious context may have contributed to the spirit of unity displayed during the encounter.
