Obi clarifies ‘my brother’ remark to Olubadan, says no disrespect intended, as same critics overlook Tinubu’s similar mention
By Ishaya Ibrahim
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has reacted to critics who accused him of disrespecting the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, with his congratulatory message where he referred to the new king as ‘my brother.’
On X, several commentators alleged that Obi denigrated the throne by using ‘my brother’ on the Olubadan. But they refused to extend the same criticism to President Bola Tinubu, who also used the same ‘my brother’ remark to greet Olubadan.
In a post on his X handle, Obi explains that he didn’t intend any disrespect to the king with the ‘my brother’ comment.
He said: “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.”
