Source: Africa Publicity
Former aide to president Goodluck Jonathan and political commentator, Reno Omokri, has publicly responded to Afrobeats star Davido after the singer commented “UMU Bingo” on one of his Instagram posts.
In an open letter addressed to Davido, whose real name is David Adeleke, Omokri expressed surprise at what he described as an insulting response from the internationally acclaimed musician. He argued that such language was unbecoming of a global celebrity whom many Nigerians admire.
The exchange stemmed from Omokri’s criticism of Davido’s previous comments about insecurity in Nigeria, which Omokri said should not have been made on an international platform. According to Omokri, while Davido may have intended to pressure authorities to address security concerns, raising the issue before a global audience risked giving publicity to terrorist groups and bandits.
Omokri contrasted Davido’s actions with those of American internet personality IShowSpeed, whom he said used the same international stage to promote Nigeria positively by wearing a Nigerian jersey and speaking favorably about the country.
The former aide also linked Davido’s reaction to support the singer received from Peter Obi, suggesting that Obi’s praise may have influenced the artist’s decision to defend him.
In his letter posted on Facebook, Omokri defended his longstanding position that public attention can strengthen terrorist groups. He cited the October 7, 2023 attacks in Israel, arguing that many major international celebrities had refrained from using high-profile events to discuss hostage situations because publicity could aid terrorist objectives.
Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s experience, Omokri referenced the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls by Boko Haram. He claimed that increased global attention following the #BringBackOurGirls campaign complicated rescue efforts and boosted the group’s recruitment and funding.
Omokri further cited former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, attributing to her the statement that “publicity is the oxygen of terrorism.” He also referenced guidance from UNESCO, which he said advises public figures and journalists to avoid providing unnecessary publicity to terrorist groups.
The commentator concluded his message by thanking Davido for his feedback and expressing hope that the singer would better understand his perspective. He ended the letter with a blessing for the musician.
The social media exchange has generated discussion online, with supporters of both men debating whether public figures should use international platforms to highlight domestic security challenges or avoid doing so to prevent amplifying the influence of violent groups.
