Tag: Reno Omokri

  • Super Falcons ‘kneeling’ to Tinubu not undignified – Reno Omokri slams critics

    Super Falcons ‘kneeling’ to Tinubu not undignified – Reno Omokri slams critics

    Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has defended members of the Super Falcons over their decision to kneel while greeting President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu, describing the gesture as a sign of respect rooted in Nigerian culture.

    In a social media post, Omokri argued that showing deference to leaders and elders is a universal norm, citing former UK Prime Minister Theresa May, who curtsied to Prince William despite being 25 years older.

    He also referenced notable Nigerians who have demonstrated similar gestures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo prostrating for the Ooni of Ife and Olu of Warri, and Governor Biodun Oyebanji prostrating for legal icon Chief Afe Babalola.

    “Kneeling or bowing does not diminish one’s dignity—it upholds our cultural values,” Omokri said, criticising those condemning the Super Falcons’ action. He labelled such critics as “uncultured and uncouth.”

    He urged Nigerians not to be misled by negative narratives, stressing that the players’ actions should be celebrated for reflecting Nigeria’s rich tradition of respect and humility.

    He wrote, “This is a photo of the then British Prime Minister, Theresa May, kneeling to greet Prince William on Thursday, August 9, 2018, when the Prince of Wales was still third in line to the throne. With the death of Queen Elizabeth II, He is now second in line. By age she is twenty five years older than Prince William.

    Read Also: Super Falcons: Presidency defends Tinubu’s gesture amid social media reactions

    “The act of kneeling or bowing down to greet the Head of State of a country and worthy elders does not strip you of your dignity. It only shows that you are a cultured person.

    “Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is the longest-serving Nigerian leader, yet he prostrates flat to greet the Ooni of Ife and the Olu of Warri. Biodun Oyebanji is the Governor of Ekiti. Nevertheless, he prostrated flat on his stomach to greet Chief Afe Babalola. Wizkid did the same for King Sunny Ade.

    “Are you better than them? No wonder you are where you are! Do not let them gaslight you. The Super Falcons acted in a most dignified manner by kneeling to greet President Bola Tinubu. Only uncultured and uncouth people consider such a civilised and virtuous action as undignified”.

  • Reno Omokri: we packaged Obi as Atiku’s running mate in 2019

    Reno Omokri: we packaged Obi as Atiku’s running mate in 2019

    A former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has said ex-Anambra State Governor Peter Obi was selected as the running mate to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar in 2019 through the efforts of key allies of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    Omokri posted this yesterday on his social media platform.

    The former presidential aide said Obi submitted his curriculum vitae (CV) unsolicited and persistently followed up with phone calls, seeking to be considered for the position.

    “We packaged Peter Obi as Atiku’s running mate in 2019. He sent me his CV unsolicited and was calling me on the phone to ask if I had seen his CV,” Omokri said.

    READ ALSO: Sanwo-Olu at 60

    He threatened to give more evidence to Obi if the former governor denied the claim.

    “I don’t particularly like Peter Obi,” Omokri said. “But the reason I once supported him was because I’m loyal to former President Jonathan.”

    The statement has sparked mixed reactions online, with some questioning the motive behind the revelation and others urging political actors to focus on developmental discourse rather than personal attacks.

    Obi had not responded to the claims as of press time last night.

  • Tinubu ended $1.5bn monthly Naira subsidy funded by borrowed money — Omokri

    Tinubu ended $1.5bn monthly Naira subsidy funded by borrowed money — Omokri

    Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has alleged that prior to President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, Nigeria was spending $1.5 billion monthly, sourced through borrowing, to artificially support the value of the naira.

    Speaking on Inside Sources, a Channels Television programme aired on Sunday, Omokri described the expenditure as a “waste” that diverted funds from critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

    “The Federal Government of Nigeria was spending $1.5 billion every month to subsidise the naira. Please assume I’m a liar and go and fact-check me—$1.5 billion every month subsidising the naira. And this was not money that we had. This was money that we were borrowing,” he stated.

    He further argued that the subsidy policy encouraged excessive importation and consumption of luxury goods, rather than promoting local productivity or sustainable economic development.

    “We were spending $200 million annually on importing human hair for our women to wear. We were spending $75 million on French champagne and £25 million on Scotch whisky.”

    Responding to questions about the hardship caused by Tinubu’s economic reforms, Omokri admitted the pain but framed it as a “necessary sacrifice”.

    Read Also: Two years of President Tinubu: A business perspective by Abdul Samad Rabiu

    “There is still a lot of suffering in the land. Nigeria is not a rich country. So if you have a father who is not rich and you are suffering, you can’t be complaining and saying, ‘Well, I’m suffering.’ No. Your father is not rich. Nigeria is an oil-poor country.”

    He also praised the decision to float the naira, insisting it has begun to pay off through structural gains.

    “The reason why we now have a trade surplus is that President Bola Tinubu has done what worked in Vietnam. He has floated the naira and made imports so expensive that Nigerians have no other choice but to buy made in Nigeria.”

    “And look at me—everything I am wearing from head to toe is made in Nigeria. And that’s how we are going to grow our economy.”

  • Ditch ‘Aso Ebi’, invest in crypto, stock – Reno Omokri advises Nigerians

    Ditch ‘Aso Ebi’, invest in crypto, stock – Reno Omokri advises Nigerians

    Former presidential aide and social commentator, Reno Omokri, has weighed in on the financial struggles of Lagosians, attributing it to certain lifestyle choices.

    He berated the cultural pressure surrounding “Aso Ebi” and frequent party attendance as potential financial burdens.

    Aso Ebi, a Yoruba term meaning “family cloth,” refers to coordinated outfits worn to social events to show solidarity and support.

    Omokri said that many Lagosians are unknowingly perpetuating their financial woes by prioritising social appearances over wealth-building.

    He criticised the trend of neglecting savings and investments such as cooperative societies (Esusu), in favour of buying expensive fabrics for parties.

    He, however, urged young Nigerians to adopt a ‘minimalist’ social life and redirect their attention to financial instruments like stocks and cryptocurrency.

    In his words, Omokri advised people to “put a pause on attending parties” and focus on building their financial stability.

    Read Also: Reno Omokri defends installation of solar panels at Aso Rock

    He emphasised the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and avoiding toxic environments, often masked by social glamour.

    He wrote on X: “If you are in Lagos and have a job or business but are not making it, consider eliminating Aso Ebi from your life. Honestly, you won’t believe how much Lagosians spend on Aso Ebi. And the pressure can be stifling. People who are not taking part in Esusu (cooperatives) yet are participating in Aso Ebi. Which means that they are not cooperating to grow their money, only to blow it.

    “And they wear the clothes once, and all that money is gone.

    “Where did all these CBEX people get influenced to invest in that Ponzi scheme? Is it not at one of these Aso Ebi parties?

    “Do yourself a favour. Put a pause on attending parties. Whether Owambe, Obito, or Trado. Be a ghost for one year. Join an Esusu. Use your digital scarcity to gain social currency. Let people say, ‘Where have you been’, instead of ‘you done come again o’. Rather than the latest dance step, get involved with the newest stock and crypto.

    “Life is not that complicated. Success is not that difficult. It is you who just makes things hard for yourself by carrying yourself to every party where your energy and atmosphere are poisoned by different people who do all manner of evil things to make money and then pretend as if it is that small shop where they sell lace that they are making all those billions from.”

  • Reno Omokri defends installation of solar panels at Aso Rock

    Reno Omokri defends installation of solar panels at Aso Rock

    Former presidential aide and socio-political commentator, Reno Omokri, has called for commendation rather than condemnation over the recent installation of solar panels at Aso Rock, the official residence of the Presidency. 

    He described criticisms of the move as “small-picture thinking” and insisted the decision is economically sound and environmentally progressive.

    Omokri, in a statement, argued the installation of solar panels does not reflect a lack of faith in the nation’s electricity infrastructure, but rather aligns with global trends in energy sustainability.

    Citing historical precedence, Omokri noted that the White House in the United States has been using solar energy since 1979 when President Jimmy Carter installed solar panels. 

    These installations were later upgraded by Presidents Ronald Reagan in 1989, George W. Bush in 2002, and Barack Obama in 2013. 

    He added that plans were reportedly in place under President Donald Trump to further update the system.

    Omokri further highlighted similar clean energy initiatives across other global seats of power. He pointed to the British monarchy’s efforts under King Charles III to install solar panels at Buckingham Palace, as well as France’s deployment of geothermal technology at the Élysée Palace in Paris.

    Read Also: It’s cruel to flaunt wealth at school reunions – Reno Omokri

    “Are you now saying that that means the United States Government does not have confidence in the ability of the United States Department of Energy to coordinate and provide adequate power for America?”

    “French Presidency not express faith in British Gas and Électricité de France to provide power?” Omokri queried.

    He emphasised that solar and geothermal energy represent the future of global power supply, noting that such transitions reduce environmental harm and relieve national grids of excessive demand.

    According to Omokri, Aso Rock is a national asset funded by public money, and it is the responsibility of the President, as a trustee, to manage such resources prudently. Installing solar panels, he argued, is both a cost-saving and forward-thinking measure.

    “By installing solar panels at Aso Rock, President Tinubu is leading by example and saving the Nigerian taxpayer money.”

    “The more Nigerians use solar energy, the less pressure they put on the National Grid. The grid can then evacuate scarce electric power to where it is most needed, including rural communities and industrial clusters,” he stated. 

    He urged Nigerians to resist the urge to join unfounded criticism of the Presidency, describing such backlash as a “total misunderstanding of the issues.”

  • It’s cruel to flaunt wealth at school reunions – Reno Omokri

    It’s cruel to flaunt wealth at school reunions – Reno Omokri

    Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has condemned showcasing luxurious items at school reunion parties.

    In a tweet, Omokri described individuals who attend these events with expensive cars and watches as “cruel.”

    Omokri argued that such displays of wealth can have devastating effects on fellow classmates who may be struggling financially.

    He suggested that these actions can lead to feelings of depression, sadness, and even suicidal thoughts.

    Read Also: Reno Omokri to Reuben Abati: Tinubu is not a dictator

    Omokri emphasised the importance of empathy and humility, urging successful individuals to attend reunion parties with a focus on reconnecting with peers rather than flaunting their wealth.

    He reminded them that they all started with nothing and that material possessions are fleeting.

    Omokri wrote: “We know you are successful. But don’t go to your school’s reunion party with your Rolex and Bentley. It is just cruel! How do you expect your classmates who have not made it to feel?”

    “Many of you have caused depression and even suicides by going to an occasion that is meant to bring back good memories only to create sad remembrances for your classmates.”

    “Just show up and don’t show off. You don’t help, and you still want to oppress. What type of wickedness is that? You all started with nothing together. And nothing will follow you when you leave this world as we all must!”

  • Reno Omokri to Reuben Abati: Tinubu is not a dictator

    Reno Omokri to Reuben Abati: Tinubu is not a dictator

    Former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri has criticised an Arise TV anchor, Reuben Abati, for calling for President Bola Tinubu’s impeachment over the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State

    According to Omokri, Tinubu acted within the legal framework set by the National Assembly, which had granted the President the authority to suspend a state governor under the Emergency Powers (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill of 2018.

    He said if Abati or others disagree with the law, the appropriate response would be to seek judicial interpretation rather than call for impeachment.

    Omokri also accused Abati of spreading misinformation by labelling Tinubu a “dictator” for granting the Rivers State Administrator the power to issue regulations. 

    Read Also: Nobody who jumped from party to party has ever become Nigeria’s president – Reno Omokri

    He clarified that the administrator would not create new laws but could formulate regulations subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and promulgation by the President.

    “It would be very sad for Nigeria’s educational system if a PhD holder like Dr. Abati does not know the difference between a regulation and a law,” 

    “A law sets the legal framework for the government, while regulations provide the detailed rules necessary for compliance with the law. 

    “In any case, using the platform of a cable news station to call for the impeachment of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces based on a limited understanding of the law and to misinform your viewers is rather callous and could trigger further instability,” Omokri said.

  • Nobody who jumped from party to party has ever become Nigeria’s president – Reno Omokri

    Nobody who jumped from party to party has ever become Nigeria’s president – Reno Omokri

    Former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri, has asserted that no politician who frequently switches parties has ever succeeded in leading Nigeria.

    Omokri made this remark in a social media post on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, emphasizing that Nigeria’s complex political environment demands stability, which is often linked to party loyalty.

    He argued that politicians who constantly change affiliations may struggle to provide the consistency and leadership the country needs.

    His words: “For the sixty-five years of Nigeria’s existence as an independent nation, nobody who has jumped from party to party has ever become President. 

    Read Also: How Natasha accused me of sexual harassment, by Reno Omokri

    “Tafawa Balewa was in one party only. Ditto for President Shagari. Presidents Obasanjo, Yar’adua, and Jonathan were only ever in the PDP. 

    Buhari was in the ANPP until the party collapsed into factions. Then, he formed his own party, the CPC, which eventually coalesced with others and became the present APC. 

    “President Tinubu was in the AD, which became the ACN, which merged with the CPC and the nPDP to form the ruling APC. The others were military men who had only one constituency-the Nigerian Armed Forces. 

    “Nigeria is a very diverse country, and this can cause tensions. Only a politically stable person can stabilise the nation. The best predictor of the future is the past. Those who jump from party to party cannot bring stability. They can only bring apathy and anarchy.”

  • How Natasha accused me of sexual harassment, by Reno Omokri

    How Natasha accused me of sexual harassment, by Reno Omokri

    Former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri, has shared a throwback video of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accusing him of sexual harassment.

    The resurfaced video comes just days after the Kogi senator made a similar allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    Omokri posted the video on his Facebook page on Saturday, March 8, 2025. 

    The footage, originally recorded on October 12, 2021, shows Akpoti-Uduaghan making the accusation while campaigning for the Kogi State governorship under the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

    In the video, Akpoti-Uduaghan claims that Omokri sexually harassed her on May 6, 2014, during a state banquet at Aso Rock Presidential Villa, hosted by then-President Goodluck Jonathan for visiting Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.

    Read Also: Nigerian in Diaspora support local businesses with N24m

    She also refuted Omokri’s defense that he was not in the country on the date in question.

    She also called on the Nigerian immigration Service to probe Omokri’s claims that he was not in the country at the time.

    But Omokri, in a rebuttal, said President Jonathan sent him to the United States as a special envoy to try to clean up Nigeria’s image after the Chibok girls saga. 

    “I was not in Nigeria throughout the time when Natasha Akpoti accused me. So she obviously lied.

    “After newspapers published my evidence, Natasha deleted all traces of her accusation. She deleted everything. She had made a video insulting me, my wife, and my newborn daughter. She also deleted that,” Omokri stated. 

  • Alleged sexual harassment: Reno Omokri urges Natasha to take lie detector test

    Alleged sexual harassment: Reno Omokri urges Natasha to take lie detector test

    Former presidential media aide, Reno Omokri has challenged Natasha Akpoti to undergo a lie detector test following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. 

    Omokri, in a detailed video posted on social media, revealed that Akpoti-Uduaghan made similar allegations against him in 2021.

    He said: “On Tuesday, October 12, 2021, Natasha Akpoti had a dispute with me and after the dispute, she went on social media and accused me of sexually harassing her. 

    “She claimed that at a state banquet at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, held by President Goodluck Jonathan for the visiting Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday, May 6th 2014, I had sexually harassed her. 

    “Now the thing is, a month before, the Chibok girls had been abducted, and as one of his presidential spokesmen, President Jonathan sent me to the United States as a special envoy to try to clean up Nigeria’s image. I left in April and I wasn’t back in Nigeria until the end of May. So, obviously, Natasha Akpoti lied.

    “So what I did, I went on social media and I published my passport stamp, with my passport leaving Nigeria, And then, entering the United States, showing the stamps, and I also published a first-class British Airways ticket showing that I left Nigeria for the United Kingdom, and from the United Kingdom to the United States, and I wasn’t in Nigeria throughout the time when Natasha Akpoti accused me. So she obviously lied.

    “So what happened is that after the newspapers published my evidence, Natasha deleted all traces of her accusation. She deleted everything. She had made a video insulting me, my wife and my newborn daughter. She also deleted that. 

    Read Also: Unpacking the Natasha-Akpabio controversy

    “The next day, I got a phone call from a prominent Christian clergyman and they felt that as a fellow pastor, I would listen to a senior member of the body of Christ. 

    He called me on three-way with Emmanuel Oritshejolomi Uduaghan, Natasha Akpoti’s present husband. 

    “They appealed to me, they quoted the scriptural references about Christians taking each other to court and I listened to them and we settled the matter out of court. I was paid a large amount of money as damages, and I let the matter go.

    “So fast forward to four years later, Natasha Akpoti had a dispute with the Senate President. After that dispute, she went on Arise TV and accused him of sexual harassment. It sounds like deja vu. 

    “The thing is, I do not know if those allegations are true. But one thing I know is that Natasha Akpoti is a liar, a known liar. So, here’s the thing. The best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour. 

    Omokri said before Nigerians crucify Akpabio, Akpoti-Uduaghan should be compelled to take a lie detector test. 

    “Come out. Take the test. You know, be escorted by one senator that is in your support and another senator that is just objective,” he said. 

    He added that because he had evidence, the Kogi senator retracted her false allegations and deleted every trace of them.

    “Until she takes a lie detector test, the presumption is that she is acting on her past behaviour,” he concluded.