Segun Atanda/
Peter Obi has apologised following backlash over the way he addressed the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in his congratulatory message, saying his words were borne out of goodwill and not disrespect.
In a post on his official X account, Obi 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.”
The clarification followed criticisms of Obi’s initial congratulatory message in which he referred to the Olubadan as “my dear brother.”
Critics argued that such phrasing was culturally inappropriate for addressing a first-class Yoruba monarch. Public figures, including former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, weighed in on the matter, insisting that traditional rulers should be accorded greater deference in public statements.
Oba Ladoja, 81, was officially installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Saturday, in a ceremony attended by President Bola Tinubu, governors, top traditional rulers, and dignitaries.
His installation was historically significant, as he became the first former governor to ascend the Olubadan throne.
While Obi apologised for any offense caused, he maintained that his message was motivated by affection and respect.
Supporters of his clarification argue that the criticism stemmed more from rigid interpretations of protocol than from any genuine slight.
The incident highlights the sensitivities surrounding cultural traditions and how political figures communicate with traditional authorities in Nigeria.
0Related posts:
Obi Faces Criticism for Calling Olubadan ‘My Brother’
Ibadan High Chief Expresses Fear Over Olubadan-designate, Olakulehin’s Health
Ladoja Drags Makinde, Olubadan, Elevated Obas To Court Over Chieftaincy Review
Wild Goose Chase in Lightening, Thunder, and Rain
Ladoja: Why I’m Not Interested in Any Crown Except Olubadan’s
Ladoja: Born in 1944, to Be Installed as 44th Olubadan, Coronation Holds Day after 81st Birthday