Ambassador-designate Reno Omokri has defended his decision to accept an appointment from President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying his acceptance is rooted in national service rather than political alignment.
Omokri made the clarification on Wednesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, addressing questions about his previous criticism of President Tinubu and reports that he once ruled out working with the current administration.
The former presidential aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan explained that his earlier comments had been taken out of context.
“That’s not what I said. The question you asked me was that if Tinubu asked me to work with him, would I accept? I said no, it’s not in my DNA,” Omokri said.
He added that during discussions with officials of the current administration, he made clear that certain roles would not be appropriate for him given his past public statements.
“When I met with the administration’s officials, I said I can’t take certain positions because of certain things that I said earlier. However, I never said I cannot work for Nigeria.
“As an ambassador, I’m going to work for Nigeria. I will be an ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he stated.
Tinubu had, late last year, nominated Omokri and several other prominent figures as non-career ambassadors. The list includes former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu; former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode; former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu; Senator Ita Enang; former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Chioma Ohakim; Bello Danbazau; Vice Admiral Ibok Ete (retd.); and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, among others.
The nominations generated public debate, particularly regarding the inclusion of certain high-profile political figures.
Months after undergoing Senate screening, Omokri said his decision to accept the role was based on personal conviction and clarity about his responsibilities.
“You know what? I cannot say everything. During our discussions, I explicitly said, ‘I cannot do this or that because of the positions I’ve held and the statements I’ve made.’ However, I told them I can do this role because I will be working for the country,” he said.
Omokri, who was once a vocal critic of President Tinubu, also indicated that his perspective has evolved.
“My position on President Tinubu has changed. I believe he is the best thing for Nigeria,” he said.
What you should know
Reno Omokri says his acceptance of an ambassadorial appointment under President Tinubu reflects his commitment to serving Nigeria, not a contradiction of his past criticism.
He clarified that he declined certain potential roles due to previous public positions but agreed to serve as an ambassador because the role represents national service.
His nomination, alongside several other prominent figures, had sparked public debate.
