Reno Omokri has responded after Afrobeats star Davido mocked him online, calling him “Umu Bingo” and “fowl” following their heated exchange over Davido’s World Cup appearance and Omokri’s earlier criticism.
The disagreement began when Omokri faulted Davido for using a FIFA World Cup-related platform to highlight the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, arguing that such actions could unintentionally amplify terrorist activity. Davido later brought up the issue again while reacting to Omokri’s explanation that his diplomatic posting to Mexico had been delayed due to World Cup-related commitments, and replied: “UMU BINGO @renoomokri fowl.”
In his response, Omokri addressed the singer point by point:
“Dear Mr. David Adeleke AKA @Davido, Thank you for your feedback. I was rather surprised by your response… Most shocking is your insult.”
“You are an international celebrity whom Nigeria is proud of. Coming to insult me on my Instagram profile with such vulgar words should be beneath you.”
“Yes, I am aware that you were upset at my appeal to you not to use an international platform, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to give publicity to bandits and terrorists.”
“I am also aware that Peter Obi praised you for doing that, which may have made you feel compelled to defend him.”
“I did that because while your intention may be good… the actual effect is to give publicity to the terrorists and help them spread fear, recruit new members, and raise funds.”
He further argued that global exposure of such incidents can be counterproductive, comparing it with how other international crises are handled on major sporting stages:
“How can you, a Nigerian citizen with a global platform, go on a global stage to give publicity to terrorists and de-market Nigeria…”
“…meanwhile, at that same event, IShowSpeed used his platform to promote Nigeria positively by wearing a Nigerian jersey and speaking well of the country.”
Omokri also referenced international examples:
“Since October 7, 2023… many celebrities have not publicly commented on such abductions during global events because they understand the consequences.”
He added that Nigeria had experienced similar outcomes in the past:
“The #ChibokGirls were abducted in 2014… after global attention increased, Boko Haram reportedly tightened their operations, making rescue efforts more difficult.”
“That is what I was trying to explain… just like Margaret Thatcher said, ‘publicity is the oxygen of terrorism.’”
He concluded by noting that guidelines for media coverage of terrorism also support restraint in amplifying such incidents:
“The UNESCO Handbook for Journalists on Terrorism Coverage urges public figures not to grant terrorists unnecessary publicity.”
Omokri ended his message on a conciliatory note, insisting his comments were driven by concern rather than personal animosity toward the singer.
https://twiter.com/i/status/2066821199363989868
