Ijaw Leaders Split Over Reno Omokri’s Ambassadorial Nomination Under Tinubu

The nomination of Reno Omokri—former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan—as a non-career ambassador has created sharp division among Jonathan’s kinsmen in the Ijaw nation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unveiled a 32-man ambassadorial list last week, with Omokri among those nominated, a development that drew mixed reactions from Ijaw leaders.

President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, criticised the nomination process, alleging that some nominees were still facing fraud-related investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Citing Omokri’s inclusion, he suggested the appointment looked like a reward for Omokri’s public support of President Tinubu.

Okaba insisted that Nigeria required “men and women of integrity” to represent the country abroad, especially at a time of serious national security challenges. He also condemned what he described as the recycling of political figures into sensitive roles without consideration for Nigeria’s global image.

“Some of these nominees have a lot of cases with the EFCC. Their integrity is questionable. I saw the former INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on the list and was surprised he was included,” Okaba stated.

However, Joseph Ambakaderimo, an influential Ijaw leader and convener of the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG), offered a different perspective. He defended Omokri’s nomination, describing him as qualified for a non-career ambassadorial role.

“I don’t see anything wrong in nominating the young man. He has worked as a presidential aide and has a wide range of followership. He has the experience and can handle the position well,” Ambakaderimo said.

Responding to concerns about Omokri’s past criticism of President Tinubu—particularly regarding drug-related allegations and certificate controversies—Ambakaderimo noted that previous Nigerian presidents had also been targets of public attacks.

“President Tinubu is a man with a big heart. Reno Omokri will do very well as an ambassador because he knows the game. He has the followership. Mr President made the right choice,” he added.

He urged Nigerians to support the President’s decision, stressing that Omokri’s background and experience made him fit for the role.

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