Ex Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified his goodwill message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Royal Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
Obi noted that while some individuals expressed concerns about the manner in which he addressed the monarch, his words were borne out of genuine goodwill and not intended as disrespect.
“I felicitated with my dear elder brother, the newly crowned His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja,” Obi explained, stressing that he often refers to revered figures he holds in high regard as “my dear elder brother,” including His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha.
He emphasized his respect for protocol and authority, assuring the public that his message was in no way meant to undermine royal traditions.
Recall that Reno Omokri as well as individuals from several quarters had called out Mr Peter Obi for the address, opining that using Dear Brother was simply disrespectful.
He wrote; “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”