Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified his congratulatory message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, following criticisms that trailed his choice of words.
Obi, in a goodwill message on Saturday, had addressed the monarch as “my dear elder brother,” a phrase that many described as a breach of Yoruba cultural protocol.
The expression sparked backlash on social media, with some Nigerians accusing him of showing disregard for traditional institutions.
Former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, faulted Obi’s remark, describing it as “lack of cultural sensitivity and diplomatic polish.”
Similarly, Lere Olayinka, media aide to the FCT Minister, said the comment reflected “cultural ignorance and political arrogance,” insisting that the Olubadan, far older than Obi, deserved to be addressed with full honor.
Amid the criticism, Obi took to his official X handle on Sunday to explain that no disrespect was intended.
He noted that his congratulatory message was born out of goodwill and that the phrase “my dear elder brother” was one he frequently used for individuals he held in high esteem.
“I respect protocol and authority and try, as much as possible, to adhere to them. Those who follow me know that I often prefer the expression ‘my dear elder brother’ when addressing people I deeply respect,” Obi said.
The clarification comes as the coronation of Oba Ladoja, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, continues to draw national attention, with messages of goodwill pouring in from political and cultural leaders across the country.
Amid Cultural Backlash
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified his congratulatory message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, following criticisms that trailed his choice of words.
Obi, in a goodwill message on Saturday, had addressed the monarch as “my dear elder brother,” a phrase that many described as a breach of Yoruba cultural protocol.
The expression sparked backlash on social media, with some Nigerians accusing him of showing disregard for traditional institutions.
Former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, faulted Obi’s remark, describing it as “lack of cultural sensitivity and diplomatic polish.” Similarly, Lere Olayinka, media aide to the FCT Minister, said the comment reflected “cultural ignorance and political arrogance,” insisting that the Olubadan, far older than Obi, deserved to be addressed with full honor.
Amid the criticism, Obi took to his official X handle on Sunday to explain that no disrespect was intended.
He noted that his congratulatory message was born out of goodwill and that the phrase “my dear elder brother” was one he frequently used for individuals he held in high esteem.
“I respect protocol and authority and try, as much as possible, to adhere to them.
Those who follow me know that I often prefer the expression ‘my dear elder brother’ when addressing people I deeply respect,” Obi said.
The clarification comes as the coronation of Oba Ladoja, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, continues to draw national attention, with messages of goodwill pouring in from political and cultural leaders across the country.