Former presidential aide and Nigeria’s ambassador designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has revealed why he has never publicly attacked former Vice President and All Progressives Congress chieftain Atiku Abubakar despite being known as one of the most outspoken and combative political commentators in the country. Omokri said he has deliberately avoided criticizing the elder statesman because Atiku was once good to him, and he believes fighting someone who has helped you is a character that God despises.
Omokri made the remarks on his official X account, formerly known as Twitter, in reaction to a viral clip of Chief Dele Momodu, founder of Ovation Magazine, discussing how President Bola Tinubu helped him while he was in exile. Momodu’s comments had generated widespread national conversation about loyalty, gratitude, and the relationship between politicians and those they have supported over the years.
The clip caught the attention of Omokri, who used the moment to reflect publicly on his own political relationships, particularly his dealings with Atiku Abubakar. While Omokri is widely known for his sharp and unrelenting criticism of certain political figures, most notably former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, many have observed that he has never directed similar attacks toward Atiku despite operating in a political space where alliances shift frequently and former allies often turn on each other.
Explaining his position, Omokri wrote on his X handle, “Avoid fighting a person who has once been good to you. It is a character God hates. No matter what, have you seen me attack Waziri Atiku?”
The statement was widely interpreted as both a personal declaration of loyalty and a subtle message directed at those in the political space who have turned against people who once supported them. By referencing Atiku’s title of Waziri, Omokri appeared to be showing a level of respect and deference that stood in contrast to the aggressive tone he typically adopts when discussing political opponents.
The timing of Omokri’s statement is significant given the ongoing debate around Dele Momodu’s viral comments about President Tinubu. Momodu, who spent years in exile during the military era, had spoken publicly about how Tinubu provided him with support during that difficult period. The comments triggered a broader national discussion about whether political figures who receive help from others should remain loyal to them regardless of political differences or changing circumstances.
Omokri’s response suggests that he firmly believes in the principle of political gratitude. By pointing to his own relationship with Atiku as an example, he positioned himself as someone who practices what he preaches when it comes to respecting those who have shown him kindness, even when the political landscape shifts.
The conversation also touches on a recurring theme in Nigerian politics, where alliances are often fluid and loyalties can change overnight depending on political convenience. It is common in the Nigerian political space for individuals to publicly attack the same people who once supported their careers, businesses, or personal lives. Omokri’s statement appears to be a pushback against that culture, suggesting that some lines should not be crossed regardless of political differences….See More
Leave a Reply