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Obi Apologises Over Controversial Address to New Olubada
Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has apologised following criticisms that trailed his Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has apologised following criticisms that trailed hiscongratulatory message to the newly coronated Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
Obi, in his initial message posted shortly after Ladoja’s coronation as the 44th Olubadan, referred to the monarch as “my dear brother,” a choice of words that sparked backlash from some indigenes of Oyo State and social media users. Critics argued that the Olubadan, being older than Obi and a first-class traditional ruler, deserved a more formal address befitting his status.
In a statement shared on his X handle on Sunday, Obi clarified that no disrespect was intended.
“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,” Obi said.
The former governor explained that his use of “dear elder brother” was a common affectionate expression he employed when addressing people he holds in high esteem.
“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,” he added.
Obi stressed that his words were borne out of goodwill and admiration for the monarch, urging critics to consider the intent rather than the phrasing.
In his earlier congratulatory post, Obi described Oba Ladoja as a “distinguished statesman” whose reign would bring blessings to Ibadanland and the Yoruba nation. He praised the former governor’s contributions to Oyo State’s growth and expressed confidence that his new role as custodian of Ibadan’s cultural heritage would be fruitful.
Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, was officially installed on Friday as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, succeeding Oba Lekan Balogun, who passed away in March.
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