Reno Omokri Criticizes Davido’s FIFA World Cup Advocacy
Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has publicly challenged Afrobeats star Davido for using his performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup countdown concert in Los Angeles to draw attention to abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. Omokri, who previously criticized the move, expressed his disapproval of the singer’s public response, stating, “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.”
The controversy centers on Davido’s stage attire, which featured the names of over 40 abducted victims alongside the message, “Bring Them Home.” While acknowledging that the singer’s intentions may be noble, Omokri argued that such high-profile demonstrations are counterproductive. He asserted, “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.”
Omokri doubled down on his position by citing former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, noting that “Publicity is the oxygen of terrorism.” He contended that global attention provides terrorists with a mechanism to recruit new members, amplify fear, and increase the perceived value of hostages. He contrasted the singer’s approach with that of American streamer IShowSpeed, who attended the same event wearing a Nigerian jersey, arguing that the latter’s actions were more beneficial for the country’s image.
Davido had earlier responded to Omokri’s initial criticism via Instagram, captioning a video of the aide with the phrase, “UMU BINGO @renoomokri fowl.” As of Tuesday, there has been no further statement from the singer or his representatives regarding Omokri’s latest response.
