Olubadan Coronation: Peter Obi Clears Air On Controversial Congratulatory Message After Backlash
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has clarified his congratulatory message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, following a wave of criticism on social media.
Obi, in his goodwill message on Saturday, had addressed the monarch as “my dear elder brother,” a phrase that sparked outrage from several Nigerians who argued it was inappropriate for a revered Yoruba royal father.
Critics, including former presidential aide Reno Omokri and media aide to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Lere Olayinka, faulted Obi’s choice of words.
Omokri described the phrase as a show of “lack of cultural sensitivity and diplomatic polish,” while Olayinka labelled it “cultural ignorance and political arrogance,” stressing that the Olubadan, far older than Obi, deserved full respect of his traditional authority.
The backlash triggered heated debates online, with many Nigerians questioning whether Obi’s casual endearment was culturally acceptable when addressing a monarch.
While some viewed it as a breach of protocol, others defended Obi, noting that his style of communication often carries personal warmth.
Responding via his official X handle on Sunday, Obi insisted that no disrespect was intended in his message to Oba Ladoja.
According to him, the phrase “my dear elder brother” is one he often uses when addressing individuals close to him, regardless of status.
“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 said.
The former Anambra governor further explained that he had used similar terms in the past when referring to the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, whom he also holds in high esteem.
He emphasized that his remarks were borne out of goodwill and not an attempt to downplay royal authority.
“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 clarified.
He added: “In matters of wrongdoing, motive is important. I assure all that my words were borne out of untrammelled goodwill.”
Obi’s clarification comes amid the heightened national attention surrounding the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
