Prime Business Africa
The Delta Democrats Forum (DDF), a coalition of civil‑society groups and political activists from Nigeria’s oil‑rich Delta State, has issued a scoping open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu demanding the immediate withdrawal of Reno Omokri’s name from the list of 32 ambassadorial nominees submitted to the Senate.
In the letter, dated November 28, 2025 and signed by Convener Comrade Ufuoma Steven Atare, the DDF accuses the former presidential aide of being “a deeply controversial personality unfit for diplomacy.” The group argues that Omokri’s “provocative rhetoric, divisive commentary and frequent public altercations—especially on social media—run counter to the calm, maturity, restraint and statesmanship expected of an ambassador.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelA deeply controversial figure
The DDF’s rejection is anchored on five points outlined in the open letter:
1. Unfit conduct – The forum says Omokri’s online behaviour “inflames (ethnic) tensions, fuels unnecessary controversy and disrespects opposing views,” making him an unsuitable representative of Delta abroad.
2. Inconsistent loyalties – The group points to Omokri’s “erratic political positions, unstable loyalty and sudden shifts in advocacy,” questioning his reliability as a diplomat.
3. Mismatch with Delta’s values Describing Deltans as “known nationwide for humility, decorum, tolerance and quiet excellence,” the DDF says Omokri’s “attention‑seeking antics, insults and unrestrained online behaviour” clash with the state’s cultural and moral standards.
4. Not fit even for local leadership– The forum argues that if Omokri cannot meet the standards required for a ward councillor (the least of local political office in Nigeria’s governance architecture), he cannot be trusted with an international posting.
5. More credible candidates available – The DDF insists Delta has “accomplished statesmen, diplomats, technocrats, scholars and community leaders with impeccable integrity” who would better serve Nigeria’s diplomatic corps.
Demand for a replacement
The letter concludes with a formal demand: “We urge Your Excellency to withdraw the nomination of Mr. Reno Omokri and replace him with a candidate who embodies unity rather than division, reflects the dignity of Delta State, and upholds Nigeria’s diplomatic reputation.”
The DDF’s convener, Comrade Ufuoma Steven Atare, said that the group’s stance reflects “widespread concern among Deltans across political lines” and that the forum will mobilise peaceful demonstrations if the president does not act.
Presidential response awaited
A senior official in the Presidency, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the administration had received the letter and would “review the concerns raised by the Delta Democrats Forum in the spirit of consultation and inclusive governance.” The official added that the Senate confirmation process is still ongoing and that all nominees are expected to undergo the usual scrutiny.
Who is Reno Omokri?
Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide under former President Goodluck Jonathan and vocal commentator on national affairs, was among the 17 non‑career ambassadors nominated by President Tinubu. The list, which also includes former governors, legislators, and other political figures, was forwarded to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for expedited confirmation.
Omokri, who hails from Delta State’s Delta Central senatorial district, has been a polarising figure in Nigerian politics, known for his outspoken views on social media and his frequent clashes with other public personalities. His nomination sparked immediate debate, with some praising his experience in public service and others warning that his temperament could undermine diplomatic efforts.
Implications for the broader diplomatic push
President Tinubu’s recent diplomatic drive – which has already seen the nomination of 32 ambassadors, including three career diplomats – is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s “excellent and strategic bilateral relations” with key partners such as China, India, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa, Kenya, and multilateral missions like the United Nations, UNESCO and the African Union.
The rejection of Omokri, a high‑profile but deeply controversial political appointee, could complicate the administration’s efforts to secure swift Senate confirmation for the entire slate, especially given the Senate’s heightened scrutiny of politically‑connected nominees.
What’s next?
The Senate is expected to begin confirmation hearings for the 32 nominees in the coming weeks. The DDF has signalled its intention to attend the hearings and to present its objections formally. Meanwhile, ombudsmen and civil‑society watchdogs have called for a transparent evaluation of all nominees to ensure that those appointed to represent Nigeria abroad meet the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
The Delta Democrats Forum’s open letter has already generated a flurry of reactions on social media, with many Deltans expressing support for the group’s stance while others argue that Omokri’s experience in public affairs makes him a valuable asset for Nigeria’s diplomatic outreach.
Prime Business Africa will continue to update this story as the Senate confirmation process unfolds and as the Presidency responds to the DDF’s demand.
