Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has explained why he referred to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as “my dear brother” following criticism on social media.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, had on Saturday congratulated Oba Ladoja on his installation as the 44th Olubadan, describing the monarch as “my dear brother.” The message, shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, read:
“I warmly congratulate my dear brother, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, on his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. His ascension to this revered throne is a celebration for the people of Ibadan and a source of pride for the entire Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.”
His choice of words sparked backlash, with some critics accusing him of breaching cultural protocol.
Responding on Sunday, Obi clarified that his words were not intended as disrespect to the throne but were meant as an expression of goodwill.
“Certainly, no disrespect intended in my goodwill message to His Royal Majesty. I felicitated with my dear elder brother, the newly crowned, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja,” he wrote.
He further explained that he often uses the expression “my dear elder brother” when referring to individuals he holds in high regard, citing his frequent affectionate references to the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.
“I have read the concerns of those aggrieved by what they considered improper addressing. I respect protocol and authority, and I try, as much as possible, to adhere to them. However, those who follow me would have noticed that I often prefer to use the expression ‘my dear elder brother’ when addressing individuals especially close to me,” Obi said.
“In matters of wrongdoing, motive is important. I assure all that my words were borne out of untrammelled goodwill,” he added.