The Nigerian Senate led by Godswill Akpabio is reportedly planning to remove Reno Omokri’s name from the list of ambassadorial nominees.
Omokri, a former presidential aide and social media commentator, has faced strong opposition due to his past criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including a remark in which he once called the president a “drug baron.”
According to Sahara Reporters, Akpabio initially supported Omokri’s nomination, reportedly as recognition for political favours.
However, he is now said to be backing efforts by some senators to reject the nominee, citing his previous statements as a disqualifying factor.
Senator Osita Ngwu of Enugu West has been leading the opposition, reaching out to colleagues to argue that someone who publicly attacked a sitting president should not represent Nigeria internationally.
The dispute escalated when a Senate WhatsApp group, used for official communication, was temporarily disabled, preventing lawmakers from responding.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan demanded that the group be reopened and deleted comments restored.
A source said: “The senate president had nominated Omokri as a reward for the hatchet job he did for him.
“However, Akpabio is rallying some of his clique to screen Omokri out on the claim that he once attacked Tinubu and called him a drug baron.
“Senator Osita Ngwu, representing Enugu West Senatorial District, is reported to be rallying senators to reject Omokri.
“Ngwu has been attacking colleagues against the move.”
Omokri, once swore never to accept any appointment or work with President Bola Tinubu.
Omokri was one of Tinubu’s fiercest critics prior to the 2023 presidential election, questioning his record, qualifications, and integrity.
Although he later softened his criticism after confirming Tinubu attended Chicago University.
