Fresh controversy trails Reno Omokri as petition urges Mexico to block his diplomatic posting
A Nigerian public commentator, Valentine Obienyem, has written to the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, urging her government to decline the appointment of Reno Omokri as Nigeria’s ambassador to Mexico.
In the letter addressed to the Mexican president at the Palacio Nacional in Mexico City, Obienyem expressed what he described as “serious concerns” over Omokri’s suitability for the diplomatic position, citing his past public statements and political activities.
“I write to express my serious concerns regarding the appointment of Mr. Reno Omokri as Nigeria’s ambassador to your country,” Obienyem stated in the letter.
“Based on his publicly documented conduct and long-standing behaviour, I believe he is not qualified to represent Nigeria, and that his acceptance could pose significant risks to diplomatic relations between our two nations,” he added.
The letter alleged that Omokri has a history of controversial political commentary and shifting allegiances, which the author argued could undermine diplomatic credibility.
“Mr. Omokri has exhibited a pattern of instability and shifting loyalties, often prioritising his own interests over principled conduct,” Obienyem wrote.
The petitioner also referenced Omokri’s outspoken criticism of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu before and during the 2023 Nigerian presidential election, noting that the nominee had publicly questioned Tinubu’s leadership credentials and integrity.
According to the letter, such statements raise concerns about the qualities required for diplomatic service.
“In light of the foregoing, I respectfully advise your office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to exercise caution regarding the acceptance of his letter of credence,” Obienyem stated.
“His record raises serious concerns about discretion, reliability, and professionalism, all of which are fundamental to the role of an ambassador.”
Obienyem further claimed that the nomination has drawn criticism from some Nigerians and civil society voices who have questioned Omokri’s suitability for the role.
“This letter is submitted purely out of patriotism and concern for the integrity of diplomatic relations between our countries,” he added.
The letter was also copied to Mexico’s foreign ministry, the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores, urging officials to carefully review the concerns before accepting the envoy’s credentials.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Mexican government nor the Nigerian presidency had publicly responded to the claims contained in the letter.
