Why I could not visit Oba of Lagos during LP mega rally — Obi

The Labour Party Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has he did not pay a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, during his mega rally in the state on Saturday because the monarch told him to come another time.

Unlike other states where Obi always visited traditional rulers before embarking on his campaigns, he started out in Lagos at the Alaba International Market.

Obi later headed for the Tafawa Balewa Square, where a campaign rally was held with many of his supporters and party faithful in attendance.

Controversy trailed the fact that Obi did not visit Oba Akiolu, as some wondered why the LP standard bearer didn’t do so.

Speaking on Channels Television, Monday evening, Obi said it was not an issue.

“I have the utmost respect for the Oba of Lagos, I have always done so to every other traditional ruler.  They (royal fathers) are highly respected.

“This is not the only place where this had happened.

“We wanted to branch to the palace, but we were told that he was not readily available to receive us, and that we should apply and come some other day,” Obi said.

Obi said he intended to do that, adding, “there is no issue with that.”

PUNCH