Peter Obi has spoken after facing criticism for addressing the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as “my brother” — www.naijnaira.com reports.
The Labour Party’s presidential candidate clarified that his words were meant as an affectionate greeting rather than disrespect toward the revered monarch.
Obi explained in a statement that he often uses the phrase “my dear elder brother” for people he feels close to and deeply respects.
He stressed that his congratulatory message came from “untrammelled goodwill” and was never intended to ignore cultural protocols tied to Yoruba traditions.
Obi noted that he served as governor of Anambra State while Ladoja was governor of Oyo State, a period that forged familiarity between them.
The former governor acknowledged the concerns of those who felt the phrase was inappropriate but insisted that his choice of words was consistent with how he addresses respected figures.
Quoting him directly, Obi said: “Certainly, no disrespect intended in my goodwill message to His Royal Majesty. My words were borne out of goodwill.”
He added that he often refers to Igwe Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, in the same affectionate manner.
The politician concluded by reaffirming his “tremendous respect” for the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing the monarch’s ascension as a moment of pride for Ibadan, the Yoruba people, and Nigeria at large.
Article updated 1 day ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
