Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has reacted after Afrobeats star Davido publicly referred to him as “Bingo” in a social media post.
The exchange comes amid an ongoing debate over Davido’s decision to use a global platform to draw attention to the plight of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State.
New Daily Prime reports that Reno had earlier attributed the delay in resuming his diplomatic duties in Mexico to activities surrounding the ongoing FIFA World Cup. Shortly afterwards, Davido appeared to take a swipe at the former presidential aide in a post that quickly gained traction online.
“Umu Bingo @renoomokri fowl”, the singer wrote.
Reacting on Tuesday, Reno shared screenshots of the post on his Instagram page and described the singer’s remarks as both “feedback” and “shocking”.
According to Reno, Davido’s reaction stemmed from criticism he had previously directed at the singer over a customised jacket bearing the names of abducted Oyo schoolchildren, which Davido reportedly wore while performing at a World Cup-related event.
Addressing the singer directly, Reno expressed disappointment over the nature of the response.
“Dear Mr. David Adeleke AKA Davido, thank you for your feedback. I was rather surprised by your response to my post. Most shocking is your insult,” he wrote.
Reno further argued that Davido, as a globally recognised entertainer, should refrain from engaging in personal attacks online.
“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,” he added.
The former presidential aide maintained that his earlier criticism was not intended to undermine Davido’s concern for the abducted children but was instead focused on the broader implications of highlighting terrorist activities on an international stage.
According to him, publicising such incidents at globally televised events could unintentionally serve the interests of criminal groups.
“Yes, I’m 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,” Reno stated.
He continued by arguing that while Davido’s intentions may have been noble, the outcome could be counterproductive.
“I did that because while your intention may be good and you think you are pressuring the government, the actual effect of what you did is to give publicity to the terrorists and help them spread fear, recruit new members, and raise funds,” he said.
Reno also referenced the support Davido reportedly received from Peter Obi, suggesting that such endorsements may have encouraged the singer to defend his actions more strongly.
Drawing a comparison, Reno pointed to popular American content creator IShowSpeed, who attended the same event and used the platform to promote Nigeria positively.
“Meanwhile, IShowSpeed, an American, at that same event used the global stage of the World Cup to market Nigeria by wearing the jersey and speaking well about Nigeria,” he wrote.
The exchange has sparked widespread reactions across social media, with supporters of both men debating whether celebrities should use international events to highlight domestic challenges or focus solely on promoting positive national narratives.
As of the time of reporting, Davido has not publicly responded to Reno Omokri’s latest remarks. The controversy, however, continues to generate discussion online, particularly regarding the role of influential public figures in drawing attention to insecurity and humanitarian concerns in Nigeria.
For more details, visit New Daily Prime at www.newstimes.com.ng.
