Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has addressed concerns surrounding his congratulatory message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, clarifying that his choice of words was meant in goodwill and not as a breach of traditional protocol.

 

In a statement Obi responded to reactions sparked by his use of the phrase “my dear elder brother” in reference to the newly installed monarch — a term that some critics felt did not align with the customary reverence expected when addressing traditional rulers.

 

“I joyfully felicitated with my dear elder brother, the newly crowned His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja,” Obi explained. “I have since read the concerns of those who felt my choice of words did not strictly follow protocol. I deeply respect tradition, authority, and protocol, and I strive, at all times, to honour them.”

 

He further explained that the expression “my dear elder brother” is one he commonly uses for individuals with whom he shares mutual respect and affection, and cited the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, as another respected traditional ruler he addresses in the same manner.

 

“Those familiar with me would know that I often use the expression ‘my dear elder brother’ when addressing individuals for whom I hold both closeness and tremendous respect,” he said.

 

Obi emphasized that his intent was simply to celebrate Oba Ladoja’s ascension to the historic throne of Ibadanland and that his words were borne from “untrammelled goodwill, respect, and genuine affection.”

 

The clarification comes in the wake of the grand installation of Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan, an event that drew massive public interest and reaffirmed the enduring reverence for traditional institutions in Nigeria.

 

Political observers note that Obi’s response reflects the sensitive interplay between personal expression and cultural protocol in a diverse society where tradition holds significant sway.

 

As public discourse continues around the evolving roles of cultural leaders and political figures, Obi’s remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of navigating such terrain with respect, clarity, and cultural awareness.