Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has defended his choice of words in a goodwill message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, after criticism over his description of the monarch as “my dear elder brother.”
The phrase, used in Obi’s congratulatory note on Saturday, stirred reactions across social media, with many Nigerians accusing the former Anambra governor of flouting cultural protocols and diminishing the traditional institution.
Critics included former presidential aide Reno Omokri, who argued that the comment showed “lack of cultural sensitivity and diplomatic polish.” He stressed that monarchs deserve full respect both in private and public communications. Similarly, Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, described Obi’s words as “cultural ignorance and political arrogance,” noting that the Olubadan was far older than Obi and should be addressed with the full weight of his royal title.
The backlash triggered heated online debates over whether Obi’s informal endearment was appropriate when addressing one of Yoruba land’s most revered traditional rulers.
Responding on Sunday through his verified X handle, Obi clarified that his words were never intended to slight the throne.
“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,” he wrote.
He explained that he frequently uses the expression “my dear elder brother” as an affectionate term for individuals close to him, including the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe.
“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 added.
The former governor emphasised that his comments were “borne out of untrammelled goodwill” and not intended as a breach of cultural values.
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