Nigerian ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has defended his position on discussing insecurity in Nigeria on international platforms following criticism from Afrobeats star Davido, who recently referred to him as “Umu bingo” on social media.
In an open letter released on Monday, Omokri said the singer’s reaction appeared to stem from his opposition to comments Davido made about insecurity in Nigeria during activities linked to the ongoing FIFA World Cup. He maintained that while security concerns remain a serious national issue, discussing terrorism and banditry on major global platforms could inadvertently serve the interests of criminal groups.
The former presidential aide said he was surprised that Davido chose to respond with an insult rather than engage with the substance of his argument, noting that the singer occupies a prominent position as one of Nigeria’s most recognised global entertainers.
“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,” Omokri wrote.
According to him, the disagreement was not about denying the existence of insecurity in Nigeria but about the appropriateness of highlighting such issues before a worldwide audience during a major sporting event.
Omokri further suggested that Davido may have felt compelled to defend his position after receiving public support from Peter Obi, who had previously praised the singer’s comments.
“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,” he stated.
To support his argument, Omokri pointed to the actions of American streamer and content creator IShowSpeed, whom he said used the same international platform to promote Nigeria positively rather than draw attention to security challenges.
He also cited several international examples, including the October 2023 hostage crisis in Israel and the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, arguing that extensive publicity surrounding terrorist activities can sometimes strengthen such groups by amplifying their visibility and influence.
The former presidential aide referenced comments attributed to former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and guidance contained in UNESCO publications on reporting terrorism, insisting that excessive attention often benefits terrorist organisations.
Despite the public disagreement, Omokri said he hoped Davido would eventually understand the reasoning behind his position and reiterated his admiration for the singer’s achievements on the global stage.
The latest exchange adds to a growing debate over how public figures should address Nigeria’s security challenges before international audiences, with supporters of both men divided over whether such discussions help draw attention to pressing problems or risk damaging the country’s image abroad.
