President Bola Tinubu met with Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi during Pope Leo XIV's installation mass in Rome on Sunday.
According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the encounter occurred when Fayemi spotted President Tinubu seated among other world leaders and invited Obi to accompany him to pay homage to the Nigerian leader.
Fayemi reportedly initiated the conversation, saying, "Mr President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence."
President Tinubu responded with a touch of humor, stating, "I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I'm the Head of the Nigerian Delegation."
The President's remark reportedly amused Obi, who acknowledged Tinubu's position, saying, "Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation."
Both Peter Obi and Kayode Fayemi are known to be devout Catholics and Papal knights, explaining their presence at the significant Vatican event.
The cordial exchange between political figures who were on opposing sides during Nigeria's 2023 presidential election has drawn attention, particularly as it occurred at such a significant religious ceremony.
President Tinubu's attendance at the Pope's installation underscores Nigeria's diplomatic engagement with the Vatican and recognition of the ceremony's global significance.
