Fayemi Opens Up on Peter Obi’s Gesture to President Tinubu
Kayode Fayemi, the former Governor of Ekiti State, has disclosed that he encouraged Labor Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to greet President Bola Tinubu during the inauguration of Pope Leo. Fayemi shared insights from this encounter in an interview on Edmund Obiro’s YouTube channel, revealing that Obi initially hesitated due to concerns about media portrayal.
Context of the Meeting
This meeting gained public attention following a May 18, 2025, post by Presidential Advisor Bayo Onanuga on social media platform X, featuring a photograph of the three individuals at the papal ceremony. Onanuga reported that Fayemi spotted Tinubu among other world leaders and prompted Obi to acknowledge him. “Mr. Fayemi saw President Tinubu sitting with other leaders and asked him to follow Obi to pay homage to the Nigerian leader,” the statement explained.
Fayemi’s Perspective on the Encounter
In his interview, Fayemi’s account largely backed Onanuga’s claims but added that Obi required some persuasion to approach the president—a detail not mentioned in Onanuga’s post. He emphasized that both he and Obi attended the papal inauguration as practicing Catholics and had breakfast with Cardinal Lazarus on the day of the event, prior to taking their seats four rows behind President Tinubu.
The Initial Hesitation and Persuasion
“Peter and I are Catholics. We were at the Vatican for the inauguration of the new pope,” Fayemi recounted. “After breakfast with Cardinal Lazarus, we proceeded to the ceremony, where we were already seated before the president arrived.” Fayemi noted that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, was the first to greet them while walking alongside the presidential delegation, prompting him to suggest they reciprocate the gesture.
Overcoming Media Concerns
Despite Fayemi’s encouragement, Obi remained concerned that this encounter might be misinterpreted by the media. “He was worried about how this might play out,” Fayemi shared. “I reassured him that it was important to show respect to our leader, regardless of political differences. This is a moment for all Nigerians to unite in celebrating the Pope’s inauguration.” Ultimately, Fayemi was able to persuade Obi to proceed with the greeting.
A Warm Reception with Humorous Exchanges
The interaction culminated in a cordial introduction to President Tinubu. “We walked up to the president and expressed our gratitude for his presence,” Fayemi said. Tinubu responded with humor, stating, “Kayode, what are you talking about? I am the leader of the Nigerian delegation, so I am the one to welcome you.” Fayemi noted that Obi acknowledged Tinubu’s leadership role as well, further easing any tension from their past electoral rivalries.
Reflections on Unity in Diversity
While the handshake marked a significant moment between the two, Fayemi highlighted that it was unclear if this was their first interaction since the contentious 2023 elections. Both Fayemi and Obi, as members of the Pontifical Order—a Vatican honor—reflect the deep ties between their faith and politics. During his post-mass remarks, Tinubu emphasized that his attendance underscored Nigeria’s unity in diversity and the collective hope for stability and progress.
Reactions to the photo shared by Onanuga on X revealed a mixed response from supporters of both politicians, with some praising the moment while others raising concerns rooted in the 2023 election. This encounter at the Vatican not only highlights individual relationships but also speaks to the broader themes of unity amid political differences in Nigeria.
