Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has responded to Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, after the singer mocked him on social media.

Omokri addressed Davido in an open letter posted on social media, where he reacted to the singer’s Instagram post calling him “Umu bingo.”

In the letter, Omokri said he was surprised by Davido’s reaction to his recent comments defending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against allegations made by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi concerning the repatriation of Nigerian prisoners from Ethiopia.

According to him, Davido’s decision to insult him publicly was disappointing, especially considering the singer’s status as an international entertainer.

Omokri suggested that Davido’s reaction may have been influenced by his criticism of the singer’s comments about insecurity in Nigeria during the ongoing FIFA World Cup. He also linked the response to Obi’s public support for Davido’s position.

Defending his earlier criticism, Omokri argued that discussions about terrorism on major international platforms could unintentionally benefit criminal groups by increasing their visibility and influence.

He contrasted Davido’s comments with the actions of American content creator IShowSpeed, whom he said used the same global platform to promote Nigeria positively.

Omokri further cited international examples, including the October 7, 2023, abduction of hostages in Israel, arguing that major celebrities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada had avoided discussing the incident on global entertainment and sporting stages.

He also referred to the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, claiming that increased international publicity complicated rescue efforts and strengthened terrorist organisations.

Quoting former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Omokri maintained that excessive publicity benefits terrorist groups and pointed to guidance in UNESCO’s handbook on terrorism coverage as support for his position.

He expressed hope that Davido would understand his perspective and wished the singer well.

He wrote partly, “You are an international celebrity whom Nigeria is proud of. Coming to insult me on my Instagram profile with such vulgar words should be beneath you.

“Yes, I am aware that you were upset at my appeal to you not to use an international platform, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to give publicity to bandits and terrorists. I am also aware that Peter Obi praised you for doing that, which may have made you feel compelled to defend him. “

The exchange followed comments Omokri made during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he addressed reports about his failure to assume his duties as Nigeria’s ambassador to Mexico.

Omokri dismissed claims that Mexican authorities had rejected him, insisting that the reports were being circulated by his political opponents.

He explained that his delayed resumption was connected to the ongoing FIFA World Cup, being co-hosted by the United States and Mexico. (TRIBUNE)