Denge Josef Onoh, the Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, has openly voiced his disapproval of a recent viral video involving Reno Omokri and Peter Obi. Onoh, a known ally of the current administration, raised several points regarding the behavior of Omokri, who has been designated as Nigeria’s ambassador to Mexico.
The controversy stems from an encounter at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where Omokri approached the former presidential candidate for a brief exchange while recording the interaction. The footage was subsequently posted online with a caption tied to the political future of the presidency, a move that Onoh believes crosses the line of professional decency. In a statement released to the press in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Onoh questioned whether such actions align with the prestigious and sensitive nature of diplomatic service.
For Onoh, the role of an ambassador requires a level of restraint and maturity that seems at odds with the public nature of the video. He noted that while it is perfectly normal for political figures to run into one another in public spaces, turning a casual greeting into a social media spectacle suggests a lack of the discretion needed to represent Nigeria on the global stage. The elder statesman emphasized that those nominated for high-ranking positions must be able to separate their personal political leanings from their public conduct.
The core of the criticism lies in the expectation that diplomatic appointees should project an image of national unity and professionalism. Onoh argued that diplomacy is built on tact and the ability to remain above partisan fray, especially when one is expected to serve as the face of the country abroad. He cautioned that the way public officials and nominees handle social media can have far-reaching implications on how the nation is perceived.
Moving forward, Onoh urged the relevant authorities to ensure that those selected for international roles are fully aware of the behavioral standards required of them. He maintained that every engagement by a government representative should reflect Nigeria’s values and prioritize the national interest over momentary online engagement.
