Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is facing backlash after referring to the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, as “my dear brother” in a congratulatory message posted on X (formerly Twitter).
In his message, Obi said “I warmly congratulate my dear brother, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, on his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland… His ascension is a celebration for Ibadan, the Yoruba nation, and Nigeria as a whole.”
Critics argue that Obi’s choice of words breached Yoruba cultural norms, which emphasize reverence in addressing traditional rulers.
Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide, condemned the statement, calling it a “lack of cultural sensitivity.”
“The Olubadan is a revered first-class king. Referring to him as ‘my dear brother’ is disrespectful and inappropriate,” Omokri wrote. He also questioned whether Obi would use similar language for a northern emir, implying double standards.
Lere Olayinka, media aide to the FCT Minister, also joined the criticism.
“Obi is 64, while the Olubadan is 81. You don’t refer to someone 17 years older, and a monarch, as ‘my brother’,” he stated on X.
Olayinka described Obi’s comment as “culturally ignorant and politically arrogant,” referencing Obi’s tenure as Anambra governor compared to Ladoja’s earlier role as Oyo State governor.
The controversy has sparked broader debates about cultural respect, political rhetoric, and regional sensitivities.