I DIDN’T INTEND TO DISRESPECT OBA LADOJA – PETER OBI
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By ‘Leke Yusuf
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023 general election, Peter Obi has stated that he did not intend to disrespect the newly crowned Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Ladoja, with his congratulatory message to the highly revered monarch.
In his initial message, Obi referred to Oba Ladoja as “my dear brother”, which drew criticism from several Nigerians across all divides.
Obi had said “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 use of “my dear brother” got many Nigerians enraged due to the wide age difference between Obi (64) and Oba Ladoja (81), calling that disrespectful according to African tradition and customs.
However, on Sunday morning, Peter Obi wrote on his verified X page; “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. -PO”
The clarification has further generated debate amongst netizens highlighting that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, is an Imperial Majesty and not a Royal Majesty as adduced by Obi.
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