Abuja: Mr. Reno Omokri, Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua, has publicly stated that there is no criminal FBI record linking President Bola Tinubu to any criminal activities. Omokri made this declaration during the City Boy Movement Podcast, hosted by Mr. O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Omokri clarified that while FBI records exist, they do not automatically imply criminality. He emphasized that President Tinubu has no criminal FBI record, distinguishing between having a generic record and a criminal record. Omokri supported his claims with the results of an FBI record check requested by Nigerian authorities, which returned negative for any criminal arrest records, warrants, or wanted status for Tinubu.
Omokri addressed the origin of records being discussed publicly, noting they stem from an earlier investigation rather than a new criminal case. He explained that a Freedom of Information Act request was responsible for resurfacing information related to a 1993 investigation, not a current legal issue.
His statements were influenced by personal investigations and a readiness to reevaluate claims when presented with reliable evidence. Omokri recounted a trip to the United States where he verified Tinubu’s educational background at Chicago State University, which altered his previous perception. He also obtained certified documents from a civil forfeiture case that further shifted his understanding of Tinubu.
Previously politically affiliated with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Omokri stated his allegiance to truth and policy outcomes, asserting that his support for Tinubu is based on factual correctness. He highlighted that several economic policies implemented by Tinubu align with proposals he once supported with Atiku, such as fuel-subsidy removal, exchange-rate reform, devolution of powers, and student loans.
Omokri defended the removal of the fuel subsidy, warning that reinstating it could place unsustainable financial pressure on Nigeria and inadvertently benefit neighboring countries. He urged Nigerians to assess Tinubu’s administration based on tangible outcomes rather than political emotions, emphasizing a fact-driven approach to governance.
Despite his support for Tinubu, Omokri maintained that his core values of truth and patriotism remain unchanged, expressing his love for Nigeria and his desire to be remembered as a patriot. Confident in Tinubu’s victory in the 2027 presidential election, Omokri called for national reconciliation post-election, underscoring the necessity for Nigeria’s continued progress.