Dare Babalola
Peter Obi’s congratulatory message to the newly crowned Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has sparked reactions, particularly with the former Labour Party presidential candidate referring to the monarch as “my brother”.
In a post via his X handle on Saturday, the former Anambra governor wrote, “I warmly congratulate my dear brother, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, on his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. His ascension to this revered throne is a celebration for the people of Ibadan and a source of pride for the entire Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.
“The enthronement of Oba Ladoja, a distinguished statesman with vast experience in business, politics, and governance, symbolises the enduring harmony between tradition and modernity in our society.”
However, the description of Oba Ladoja as Obi’s brother did not sit well with some netizens, particularly those from the Yoruba race.
Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, blasted Obi via his comment box saying, “Your brother or elder brother? Iru arifin wo ni yi bayi? (What sort of disrespect is this?).
Another netizen, Woye wrote, “You no get sense at all ‘my dear brother’
2: Delete this tweet.
3: Ibadan people note this nonsense talk oooo.
4: Peter Obi insulted Ibadan people.”
Legendary Joe wrote, “Kabiesi Is Not Your Brother – Olubadan Is Your Father.
“Are there no elders in Obi’s lineage to restrain him? For if he tarries on this perilous path, he may soon join his Special Security Adviser at Uppiweka Oba kii se broda e… The King is not your brother.
“Goodluck Jonathan (67) – Elder Brother.
Atiku Abubakar (76) – Elder Brother.
Charles Soludo (65) – Elder Brother.
“But when it comes to a Yoruba King – Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja (81) – suddenly, he is nothing more than your brother?”
“Peter Obi lacks cultural competence. First, in Yoruba, an Oba can no longer be addressed as ‘my brother’, not even Obasanjo or Tinubu will say that.
“Both of you are not blood or traditionally related and apart from that, he’s much older in age and now in status. Learning protocols in writing will help PO’s handlers.
“According to the Yoruba mythology, KABIO- Kan KOSi, is now a deity in a human body. He speaks with a tone of finality!!” Another netizen, Biodun Adeyanju wrote.
Prince AY said, “You lack respect! How can Oba Ladoja be your friend? Kini ipade were ati asiwin? He is at best your elder brother and never your friend. Let’s know what we are doing ooooo.”
Yetunde Yusuf also added her view saying, “Oga, show some sense of cultural awareness. The Olubadan is not your peer — he is the King, and you are a subject. If you cannot offer the appropriate courtesy due to him, then retreat into your hole and stay silent.”
“Never in your life, called Kabiyesi, my brother. Very disrespectful,” Yaya Oseni sounded the note of warning.
