Reno Omokri, Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Mexico, has publicly urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, to issue an apology to President Bola Tinubu. The demand stems from Atiku’s repeated practice of addressing the incumbent President by his first name, “Bola,” rather than his official title, a gesture Omokri perceives as a significant mark of disrespect towards the presidential office.
Omokri’s Stance on Presidential Protocol
In a detailed post shared on his verified X handle, Omokri emphasized the critical importance of demonstrating proper reverence for the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He contended that such conduct is fundamental for any individual aspiring to national leadership, indicating good judgment and the requisite temperament.
The former presidential aide expressed considerable dismay, asserting that the consistent use of “Bola” when referring to the President establishes a detrimental precedent. He argued that this action not only undermines the dignity of the presidency but also projects a negative image of Nigeria and its citizens internationally, suggesting that the nation’s opposition politics are trivial and lacking decorum.
Past Comparisons and Perceived Double Standards
Omokri further highlighted what he views as an inconsistent application of respect, pointing out that Atiku had never addressed former President Muhammadu Buhari, against whom he competed in previous elections, simply as ‘Muhammadu.’ He posited that this selective approach to address risks fostering division within the country’s political landscape.
In his impassioned appeal, Omokri directly addressed Atiku: “You need to apologise to President Tinubu. I watched your press conference today and noticed that you repeatedly referred to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces as ‘Bola’ rather than President Bola Tinubu.”
He then drew a sharp contrast with Atiku’s historical relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Omokri recalled that even during periods of profound disagreement and public feuds with Obasanjo, Atiku consistently accorded him the respect due to his office by referring to him as ‘President Obasanjo.’ This was despite Obasanjo’s drastic actions, including declaring Atiku’s Vice-Presidential office vacant, withdrawing his privileges, and ordering him out of a Federal Executive Council meeting.
Omokri underscored the disparity by noting President Tinubu has not taken any such punitive measures against Atiku. He reminded Atiku of Tinubu’s past support, including offering him a platform on the Action Congress ticket. “Yet, you disrespect him and respect President Obasanjo,” Omokri concluded, questioning the rationale behind Atiku’s differing levels of regard for the two Nigerian leaders.
Omokri’s call for an apology amplifies an ongoing discourse about political decorum and the respect accorded to public office holders in Nigeria.