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Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has ridiculed 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for his choice of words in a congratulatory message to the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.
Obi had posted on X on Saturday, celebrating Ladoja’s ascension as the 44th Olubadan, describing it as a source of pride for both the Yoruba nation and Nigeria.
He praised the monarch’s achievements as a former governor of Oyo State and highlighted his contributions to the growth and development of Ibadan.
Peter Obi wrote in part: “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.”
“Olubadan Deserves Respect, Not Casual Address”
Omokri took issue with Obi referring to the Olubadan as “my dear brother,” arguing that such phrasing was inappropriate for a First Class king and custodian of Ibadan’s cultural heritage.
In a statement on Facebook, Omokri stressed that the Olubadan’s throne predates colonial structures and should not be equated with warrant chiefs established during British rule.
He wrote: “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’. The ancient throne of Ibadan predates colonialism. The Olubadan is a First Class King and deserves honourable treatment from Nigerians. He is a warrior king and Kabiyesi (one who cannot be questioned).”
Omokri further questioned whether Obi would use the same informal tone with northern monarchs, insisting that Yoruba royalty deserves equal respect.
He linked Obi’s remark to what he described as a lack of polish, diplomacy, and leadership, arguing that such traits render him unfit for the presidency.
“Do you now see why you are not a fit and proper person to be Nigeria’s President? You are a low-cultured individual who lacks class and diplomacy. You are not polished. The only thing you respect is money. You are a trader, not a leader,” Reno added.
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