Olubadan Dispute: Oriyomi Hamzat Accuses Obi of Disrespecting Yoruba Culture

Broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat has publicly accused former presidential candidate Peter Obi of breaching Yoruba cultural protocol by addressing the newly crowned Olubadan as “my dear brother” in his congratulatory message. 

Hamzat made the remarks during his “So Kan Wa Special” show on Agidigbo FM, insisting that such casual phrasing is an affront to the dignity of the Ibadan throne and Yoruba tradition.  He emphasized that his critique was not politically motivated but was intended to defend the respect owed to traditional institutions. 

He contrasted Obi’s wording with how other officials communicate with traditional rulers, citing that even President Tinubu refrains from using overly informal terms like “my friend.” 

In response, Obi clarified that no disrespect was intended. In a statement, he explained that “my dear elder brother” is a phrase he commonly uses in respectful contexts and asserted that he always strives to honor protocol and authority. 

The controversy spotlights tensions between modern political discourse and long-held cultural norms, especially in Yorubaland, where protocol and respect for chieftaincy institutions remain deeply valued.