Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has addressed the controversy surrounding his recent goodwill message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Royal Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
Obi explained that his choice of words in referring to the monarch as “my dear elder brother” was made out of sincere respect and affection, not disrespect, as some critics had suggested.
He clarified that it is his usual practice to address esteemed individuals he holds in high regard with such endearing terms, including traditional rulers like His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha.
Reaffirming his respect for traditional protocol and authority, Obi emphasized that his message was purely a gesture of goodwill and not meant to undermine royal traditions.
Quoting his statement:
“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”
