VIDEO: Peter Obi Was Bounced From Entering The VVIP Section At The Vatican Papal Inauguration
A moment of embarrassment played out at the Vatican City over the weekend for former Nigerian presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, after he was prevented from entering the VVIP section during the papal inauguration ceremony for failing to present the required invitation pass.
In a video making the rounds on social media, the former Anambra governor was seen being stopped by Vatican security officials as he attempted to access a restricted area at the grand event.
One of the officers could be heard politely but firmly informing Obi that without the proper credentials, he could not be granted entry into the designated section.
The footage, which has triggered a flurry of online reactions, shows Obi standing momentarily stunned as he was turned away, despite claims by his supporters that he had travelled to represent Nigeria and show solidarity with Cardinal Francis Arinze, one of Africa’s most prominent Catholic leaders.Travel guides
Social media users wasted no time dissecting the development.
An X user, Pastor Okezie J Atani, took a swipe at the Labour Party leader and his supporters, writing:
“Instead of (Obidients) to concentrate on Peter Obi that was ‘BOUNCED’ from entering the event center even when he was the bag holder for Cardinal Arinze… Peter Gregory Onwubuasi Obi was CLEARLY told ‘YOU ARE NOT WELCOMED INSIDE.’”
Although Peter Obi has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, sources close to Vatican protocol explained that access to the VVIP section at papal ceremonies is strictly regulated, and even political figures are required to carry formal invitation passes vetted by the Holy See.
Reports had surfaced on how the Nigerian presidency “celebrated” President Bola Tinubu shaking hands with the newly installed Bishop of Rome and the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, on Sunday.
The pontiff had routinely shaken hands with several world leaders in St Peter’s Square after the inauguration mass on Sunday.
While shaking hands with the Pope, Tinubu had been captured having a brief conversation with him before moving away.
Other world leaders who shook hands with the Pope include US Vice President J.D Vance and Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, among others.
Instead of Ob!diots to concentrate on Peter Obi that was “BOUNCED” from entering the event center even when he was the bag holder for Cardinal Arinze…
Naija News House had earlier reported that Fayemi sighted President Tinubu, where he sat with other leaders and asked Obi to follow him to pay homage to the Nigerian leader. Obi agreed.
On getting to the President, Fayemi broke the ice between Obi and Tinubu. He said:
“Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.”
President Tinubu, ever quick-witted, responded: “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation”.
The President’s response cracked up Obi, who agreed with the President.
Obi said: “Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation”.
Peter Obi and Fayemi are staunch Catholics and Papal knights.
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