"A Pontiff Who Walked the Talk": Obiano Mourns Pope Francis with Touching Personal Tribute
Former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has paid a deeply personal and emotional tribute to Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The globally revered Pontiff is set to be laid to rest on Saturday.
In a heartfelt statement, Obiano—himself a Knight of the Pontifical Order of St. Gregory the Great—recalled his unforgettable encounter with the late Pope during his investiture at the Vatican on January 15, 2020.
“It was a revelation. You expect such a global spiritual leader to be distant, but he was so approachable, so real,” Obiano shared.
He recounted how his family stayed at Domus Sanctae Marthae—the modest Vatican guesthouse Pope Francis chose to live in rather than the lavish Apostolic Palace, in line with his values of simplicity and humility.
Obiano fondly recalled how his then-teenage son, Chukwudifu, excitedly took a selfie with Pope Francis during the event. Rather than frown upon it, the Pope smiled warmly, a reaction that left a lasting impression.
“That’s who he was. A pontiff who walked the talk, who preached simplicity and lived it,” Obiano said.
But the most remarkable moment came when the Pope removed his white skullcap—the papal zucchetto—and handed it personally to Obiano. It was a rare and touching gesture.
“It was so deeply moving that I encased it in a special glass display on our family altar. Not just to preserve it, but as a constant reminder of his humility and grace,” he noted.
The Pope also presented rosaries to his wife, Ebelechukwu, daughter Dr. Gechi, and son Chukwudifu—gifts they cherish as spiritual keepsakes.
✝️ Opinion: The People's Pope, Even in Private Moments
This tribute from Obiano reminds us why Pope Francis captured the hearts of millions—not with grandeur, but with humility, accessibility, and unshakable faith. In an era of performative leadership, he was the embodiment of quiet strength and sincere service.
Obiano’s touching story gives a rare glimpse into the personal side of a pontiff who meant so much to the world—and even more to individuals who met him. A selfie, a smile, a skullcap—simple things that revealed a profound legacy.
“In the Pope, we saw the face of Christ. And in his memory, we must live out what he stood for,” Obiano concluded.
🙏 Let us reflect on the life of a leader who preached peace, lived modestly, and led by example.
🕊️ Rest in Peace, Pope Francis — your light continues to shine.
#ObianoRemembers #PopeFrancisLegacy #CatholicFaith #SpiritualLeadership #NaijaFaithCommunity #HumilityAndGrace #DomusSanctaeMarthae #ZucchettoStory