Tension in Senate as Omokri’s Nomination Sparks Confusion
There is growing turmoil in the Nigerian Senate following the nomination of Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide and social‑media commentator, as an ambassadorial nominee by Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The nomination has provoked a fierce backlash from several senators, highlighting deep divisions over his suitability.
Sources within the Senate revealed that the nomination was initially championed by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, reportedly as recognition for “political work” Omokri had done.
However, the decision has now generated pushback from some of Akpabio’s own allies, reflecting a sudden turn in support for the nominee.
Central to the opposition is a past controversial remark by Omokri in which he labelled President Tinubu a “drug baron,” a statement critics argue disqualifies him from representing Nigeria diplomatically.
In response to the intensifying row, a Senate WhatsApp group used for internal communications was reportedly locked down after heated exchanges, an unusual step that reflects how polarising the nomination has become.
Some senators, led by Osita Ngwu of Enugu‑West, are pushing to reject Omokri’s nomination, arguing that someone who previously attacked the head of state, and has not retracted those remarks, lacks the credibility to serve as a diplomatic envoy.
Despite the backlash, the Senate is still slated to begin screening the full list of 32 ambassadorial nominees soon, including Omokri. It remains uncertain whether his nomination will survive the scrutiny or be withdrawn in response to pressure.