Real reason I referred to Olubadan Ladoja as ‘my brother’ – Peter Obi

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified why he described the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi  Ladoja, as “my dear brother” in a goodwill message, a choice of words that sparked criticism in some quarters.

Commentators including Lere Olayinka, spokesman to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Reno Omokri, former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, faulted Obi’s description, arguing that it downplayed the monarch’s status.

In a post on his X handle on Sunday, the former Anambra State governor said his intention had been misinterpreted and stressed that he meant no disrespect.

He wrote: “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. 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 and for whom I have tremendous respect.

” I always refer to His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, as my very dear elder brother in the same affectionate manner. In matters of wrongdoing, motive is important. I assure all that my words were borne out of untrammelled goodwill.”

Obi’s explanation followed his earlier congratulatory message to Oba Ladoja, in which he stated: “Congratulations to Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I. 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.

“The enthronement of Oba Ladoja, a distinguished statesman with vast experience in business, politics, and governance, symbolises the enduring harmony between tradition and modernity in our society.

“As Governor of Oyo State, Oba Ladoja played a vital role in shaping the growth and development of Ibadan. I am confident that the same spirit of vision, dedication, and service that defined his public leadership will now find fuller expression in his new role as custodian of Ibadan’s rich cultural and traditional heritage.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations once again to the people of Ibadan and Oyo State as they welcome this new dawn in their history. It is my earnest prayer that Oba Ladoja’s reign will be long, peaceful, and fruitful, bringing enduring blessings to the land and its people.”