Reno Omokri Criticises Peter Obi Over ‘My Dear Brother’ Remark to Olubadan

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has faulted former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for addressing the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, as “my dear brother” in his congratulatory message.

Background to the Controversy

Oba Ladoja was officially installed on Friday, September 26, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in a colourful ceremony at Mapo Hall, Oyo State. Political leaders, dignitaries, and cultural enthusiasts attended the event to witness the enthronement of the respected monarch.

Shortly after the ceremony, Peter Obi took to his social media page to celebrate the new Olubadan, describing him as “my dear brother” while recalling his legacy as a former governor of Oyo State and praising his leadership qualities.

Reno Omokri’s Strong Reaction

However, Omokri sharply criticised Obi’s choice of words, insisting that the ancient throne of Ibadan commands utmost respect and should not be addressed in overly familiar terms.

“His Royal Majesty, the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, is a Royal Father. Therefore, he should not be flippantly addressed as ‘my dear brother’,” Omokri wrote on social media.

He added that Ibadan, once the largest city-state in West Africa, has a rich pre-colonial history and its throne deserves reverence. Omokri further argued that Obi would not have addressed a northern Emir in the same manner, describing the remark as culturally insensitive and diplomatically inappropriate.

Wider Reactions and Political Undertones

The criticism has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians on social media. While some agreed with Omokri’s cultural argument, others felt the issue was unnecessarily politicised, given Obi’s intention to celebrate the monarch rather than demean the throne.

Political observers believe the controversy underscores the cultural sensitivities surrounding Nigeria’s traditional institutions and the importance of appropriate protocol in addressing revered monarchs.

Looking Ahead

As debates continue, many have called for mutual respect and understanding between political leaders and traditional rulers, emphasising that both institutions play vital roles in national unity and development.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org