Tension is rising in the Nigerian Senate following the nomination of social media commentator and former presidential aide Reno Omokri for an ambassadorial position. The nomination, part of a 32-name list forwarded to the Senate, has sparked internal disputes, factional battles, and even the temporary shutdown of a Senate WhatsApp communication group.
Controversy Over Past Remarks
Omokri’s nomination has drawn criticism due to his previous public statements about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including a controversial remark where he labelled the President a “drug baron.” Sources indicate that Senate President Godswill Akpabio initially championed Omokri’s name, allegedly as a reward for political work he had done for him.
However, reports suggest Akpabio is now mobilising opposition to the nomination, citing Omokri’s past attacks on President Tinubu as grounds for rejection.
“The Senate President had nominated Omokri as a reward for the hatchet job he did for him,” a source disclosed.
“However, Akpabio is rallying some of his loyalists to screen Omokri out on the claim that he once attacked Tinubu and called him a drug baron.”
Resistance Led by Senator Osita Ngwu
Senator Osita Ngwu of Enugu West is reported to be leading opposition to Omokri’s nomination. Ngwu argues that anyone who previously accused a sitting President of criminal activity cannot credibly represent Nigeria internationally.
The disagreements reportedly escalated when a Senate WhatsApp group, used for internal communication among lawmakers, was locked by Ngwu, preventing further discussion. This move provoked backlash from several senators, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who demanded that the platform be reopened and deleted comments restored.
“Someone who called the President of Nigeria a drug baron and who has not retracted the statement should not represent Nigeria and Nigerians in the international and diplomatic society,” Ngwu stated.
Omokri’s Previous Position on Tinubu
Reno Omokri, once a fierce critic of Tinubu, had publicly vowed never to work with him. During an interview on the Mic On Podcast, Omokri stated:
“It will never happen… I can’t do it. It’s just against my principles… It’s never going to happen.”
Despite later softening his criticism after confirming Tinubu attended Chicago University, Omokri’s past remarks continue to fuel controversy surrounding his nomination.
Senate Screening Expected
Sources indicate that the Senate is expected to commence screening of ambassadorial nominees on Tuesday, with Omokri’s nomination likely to be a contentious item on the agenda.
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