Peter Obi clarifies goodwill message to Oba Ladoja, says no disrespect intended

Mr. Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, has clarified his goodwill message to Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the newly crowned traditional ruler.

Obi had referred to the monarch as his “dear brother” in a congratulatory message, a choice of words that drew criticism from some quarters who considered it a breach of protocol.

In a statement on Sunday via his X handle, Obi said his words were borne out of goodwill and not intended to cause disrespect.

His words: “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.”

Obi said he has always extended similar affection to other monarchs, including Igwe Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, whom he frequently refers to as his “very dear elder brother.”

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