Former presidential aide and social commentator, Reno Omokri, has been cleared by the Senate for appointment as a non-career ambassador, despite strong public criticism over his shifting political allegiances.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nominated Omokri in late November 2025 as part of a list of 68 non-career ambassadorial nominees forwarded to the National Assembly for screening and confirmation.
During the screening session on December 11, the process briefly sparked debate when Senators Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) and Ali Ndume (Borno South) raised procedural concerns. Oshiomhole, however, openly vouched for Omokri, describing him as someone he had known for many years, a move that helped smooth his clearance by the committee.
Omokri was cleared alongside other notable nominees, including INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, whose inclusion on the list also attracted attention.
The nomination has continued to stir controversy, particularly on social media, where critics accuse Omokri of political inconsistency. They point to his past vocal support for former President Goodluck Jonathan and Atiku Abubakar, as well as his repeated criticisms of Tinubu before the 2023 general elections. Omokri later shifted allegiance, publicly endorsing Tinubu while becoming a sharp critic of Peter Obi and the Labour Party movement.
Despite the backlash, supporters argue that political realignments are not uncommon and should not automatically disqualify individuals from public service.
Omokri’s appointment, along with those of other nominees, is now awaiting final confirmation by the full Senate, as civil society groups and commentators continue to call for greater consistency and integrity in diplomatic and public appointments.