Obi: Why I called Oba Ladoja ‘my brother’

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has explained why he referred to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, as his “dear brother” in a congratulatory message.

Obi’s comment had sparked reactions from some quarters, with critics arguing that his choice of words did not adequately reflect the monarch’s royal status.

Responding via a statement on Sunday, September 28, 2025, Obi said no disrespect was intended and that he holds the Olubadan in the highest esteem.

Obi wrote on X: “Certainly, no disrespect was 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.”

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The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate added that his use of the phrase “my dear elder brother” is a common practice when addressing individuals close to him and for whom he has great respect.

The former governor stated: “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.”

Obi urged Nigerians to consider his motive, stressing that his message was borne out of “untrammelled goodwill.”

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

The Star