A large crowd gathered in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, on Wednesday as Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, attended the burial ceremony of Catholic Bishop Peter Nworie Chukwu, drawing an overwhelming public reception.
Obi’s arrival at the funeral of the respected cleric triggered scenes of excitement, with thousands of supporters and residents lining the streets to catch a glimpse of him as he made his way through the capital city.
As he departed the ceremony, chants of his name filled the atmosphere, with many attendees expressing visible enthusiasm, a moment that reflected his continued popularity within sections of the Southeast.
The burial event honoured the late Bishop Chukwu, who passed away at the age of 60 after a brief illness. He was widely regarded for his humility, leadership, and devoted service to the Catholic Diocese since his appointment in 2021.
Church leaders and mourners described his death as a significant loss to the Catholic community in the region, noting his impact on pastoral work and community engagement during his tenure.
The strong public reaction to Obi’s presence stood out during the ceremony, with supporters interpreting the reception as a sign of his enduring grassroots appeal across the Southeast.
For many of his admirers, the turnout and spontaneous displays of support were seen as an indication of his political relevance and continued influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event combined both solemn mourning and political undertones, as the crowd’s reaction to Obi once again highlighted his strong emotional connection with a segment of the public in the region.
