Tensions Rise in Northern Nigeria Over Obi’s No-Show at Buhari’s Funeral

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

16 July, 2025

Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, is facing renewed criticism from Northern political voices following his absence at the state burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday.

Former presidential aide Reno Omokri and Northern political commentator known as Sarki took to social media to condemn Obi’s decision not to attend the funeral, which drew key national figures including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemi Osinbajo, governors, ministers, and traditional rulers from across the country.

Omokri, in a lengthy post on X (formerly Twitter), accused Obi of displaying disregard for Northern sentiments and questioned his political sincerity. He argued that Obi’s absence sends a clear message to the North about where his loyalties lie.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was in Daura from beginning to end, showing his personal devotion to General Muhammadu Buhari and his commitment to the North. Arewa, remember who was not there,” Omokri wrote.

He also referenced a 2024 event where Obi allegedly referred to former Head of State Yakubu Gowon as “an enemy to be forgiven,” and tied Obi’s recent remarks on IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu as further evidence of a concerning posture towards the North.

“This is the same Nnamdi Kanu who said the vilest things about Arewa and falsely claimed Buhari died and was replaced by a Sudanese clone. Yet Peter Obi said Kanu’s trial ‘makes no sense.’ Arewa, isn’t the handwriting on the wall clear?” Omokri asked.

He concluded that Nigerians in 2027 should elect a “truly Nigerian president” and not one he described as “a pretender whose true allegiance lies elsewhere.”

Sarki echoed similar sentiments, warning that Obi’s perceived snub of the former president’s burial could alienate northern voters. “Peter Obi didn’t attend President Muhammadu Buhari’s burial. This is the same man who expects northerners to hand over Nigeria to him. Let’s see how he plans to become president without our votes,” he stated.

Their comments come at a time when political alignments and narratives are beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections, with Northern influence expected to play a decisive role.

Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Maduabuchi Idam also weighed in, questioning the federal government’s decision to declare a public holiday in Buhari’s honour, further stoking debate around the late president’s legacy and the political significance of his passing.

Obi, as of the time of this report, has not publicly commented on his absence or responded to the criticisms.

About The Author