Obi Visits Obasanjo, Olubadan, Emphasises Unity, A ‘New Nigeria’

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi embarked on a series of high-profile visits today, meeting with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the newly installed Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja.

The meetings, described by Obi as “courtesy visits,” focused on the state of the nation and fostering unity, love, fairness, and justice for all Nigerians.

Obi, who captured the attention of many Nigerians during the 2023 presidential election, announced the visits via his official X handle, detailing that he was accompanied by Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and Segun Adebanjo.

The presence of these prominent figures from the Labour Party further underscored the significance of the meetings.

Today, I, with Dr Yunusa Tanko, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and Segun Adebanjo, visited President Obasanjo on a courtesy visit. Thereafter, we visited the new Olubadan of Ibadan kabiyesi Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja,” Obi stated on X.

He added, “In both visits, we were fortunate to discuss the state of our nation and how all of us can live in unity, love, fairness and justice progressively together.”

The meeting with Obasanjo, a highly influential figure in Nigerian politics, is particularly noteworthy. While the specifics of their conversation remain confidential, it’s understood that Obasanjo has consistently played an active role in shaping the national discourse and offering guidance on critical issues.

Sources close to Obi’s camp suggest that the discussion likely revolved around strategies for promoting national unity and addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country.

Following the meeting with Obasanjo, Obi and his delegation proceeded to the palace of the Olubadan, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, who was recently crowned as the paramount ruler of Ibadanland.

The visit served as an opportunity for Obi to pay his respects to the new monarch and engage in conversations about the well-being and progress of the ancient city and its people.

The Olubadan, a respected traditional leader, holds considerable sway within the region and plays a vital role in maintaining peace and harmony in the community.

In his statement, Obi expressed optimism stemming from these discussions. “The meetings make me believe that coming together of a competent team with capacity, compassion, and commitment to build a new Nigeria that is POssible,” he asserted, referencing his popular campaign slogan “POssible.”

This statement suggests that Obi remains committed to his vision of a better Nigeria and believes that collaboration and dedicated leadership are key to achieving this goal.

Political analysts suggest that these visits signal Obi’s continued engagement in the political landscape and his commitment to contributing to the national conversation, despite the outcome of the 2023 election.

His meetings with prominent figures like Obasanjo and the Olubadan also highlight the importance of dialogue and collaboration across different sectors of society in addressing the nation’s challenges.

The timing of these visits also coincides with ongoing debates about national unity and the need for inclusive governance. Nigeria continues to grapple with issues related to ethnic and religious diversity, economic inequality, and security challenges. Obi’s emphasis on unity, fairness, and justice resonates with many Nigerians who are seeking solutions to these complex problems.