Peter Obi explains absence at Buhari’s burial, cites flight hurdles

Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has explained the reason behind his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, held on Tuesday in Daura, Katsina State.

His nonappearance drew criticism from some quarters, prompting the former Anambra State governor to clarify that he was unable to secure a flight to Katsina on time.

Speaking in an interview with Arise TV, Obi said, “I had made arrangements to attend, but unfortunately, I could not get a flight to Katsina on time. Even if there was a flight, you couldn’t land in Katsina Airport. It was all closed because there was a lot of dignitaries.”

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Obi eventually arrived in Daura on Wednesday to personally pay his condolences to the late president’s family. He noted that mourning the deceased continues for days and his visit was still in line with tradition.

“Mourning continues until tomorrow. So, whoever comes today and tomorrow is still part of the mourning,” he said.