The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to embrace love, peace, and unity regardless of tribal, religious, or political differences, stressing that such values are essential for building a stronger nation.
Obi made the call on Sunday during his visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking to journalists, the former Anambra State governor said his visit was both to pay homage to royalty and to congratulate Ladoja on his emergence as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“First, I am here to pay my sincere respect to the Olubadan-designate, a man I deeply admire. My visit is about Nigeria, about selfless leadership — leadership committed to turning our society around. We must unite and love one another to build a better country. We have no other nation but this one, and we must build it together for the good of all,” Obi stated.
He highlighted Ibadan’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s political, social, and economic development and expressed confidence that Ladoja’s experience as a senator, governor, and businessman would enrich his reign.
“Ibadan is central to Nigeria’s progress. With his background in politics, governance, and business, I believe Oba Ladoja has everything needed to succeed as Olubadan. I will fully support him, for the sake of one Nigeria,” he added.
Obi also praised the University of Ibadan and other institutions in the city for shaping leaders from diverse parts of the country.
Responding, Oba Ladoja described his appointment as an opportunity for service rather than prestige.
“Many people wrongly assume the throne is about glamour. The era of glamour is gone. Today, leadership is about service and what you can bring to the table for society,” the Olubadan-designate remarked.
Obi was accompanied by the LP’s 2023 Lagos governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and LP chieftain, Yunusa Tanko, among others.
In a related development, House of Representatives members Sina Oyedeji (Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency) and Adebayo Adepoju (Ibarapa North/Ibarapa Central Federal Constituency), both of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), also visited the Olubadan-designate.
Speaking after their meeting, the lawmakers described Ladoja as “a father to all” and noted that his guidance challenged them to serve their people faithfully.
“We came to pay homage to Baba, the new Olubadan. To us, he is not just the Olubadan of Ibadanland but the Olubadan of Nigeria. He advised us to work hard, deliver on our promises, and never disappoint our people,” they said.
