After Reno Omokri’s criticism, Obi clarifies message to Olubadan

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has issued a clarification over his congratulatory message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, following backlash on social media.

SK Blog earlier reported that Obi, in his goodwill message on Saturday, referred to the monarch as “my dear elder brother,” a phrase that sparked criticism from some Nigerians who considered it disrespectful to Yoruba traditional institutions.

Among those who faulted Obi’s choice of words was former presidential aide Reno Omokri, who argued that the phrase reflected a lack of cultural sensitivity and diplomatic polish. Similarly, Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, described Obi’s expression as evidence of cultural ignorance and political arrogance, stressing that the Olubadan was not only a revered monarch but also far older than Obi.

The development ignited debates online, with some Nigerians insisting that royal fathers must be accorded utmost respect in both private and public communications, while others defended Obi’s style of endearment as harmless.

In response to the backlash, Obi took to his official X handle on Sunday to explain that his message was borne out of goodwill and carried no intention of disrespect.

“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 wrote.

He further explained that he often uses the phrase “my dear elder brother” when addressing individuals close to him and for whom he has tremendous respect, citing his frequent affectionate references to the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, as an example.

“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,” Obi noted.

“In matters of wrongdoing, motive is important. I assure all that my words were borne out of untrammelled goodwill,” he added.

Obi’s clarification comes amid nationwide attention on the coronation of Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, which has continued to attract goodwill messages from leaders across political and cultural circles.