Reno Omokri Reaffirms Respect for Igbo People and Explains Opposition to Peter Obi in Visit to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu

During a visit to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s residence, Reno Omokri, former presidential assistant and non-career ambassador for Nigeria, shared his political views, expressed his respect for the Igbo people, and clarified why he opposed Peter Obi. Omokri posted a video on Instagram on Saturday, December 20, 2025, where he elaborated on these points.

Omokri began by praising Senator Kalu, saying, “I have great admiration for his Excellency Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.” He explained that his respect comes from observing Kalu’s life, including his younger days in Maiduguri. He described Kalu as “a true Nigerian, with a mindset free from ethnic and religious biases,” committed to the nation, though he noted that many people might not be aware of these qualities.

Addressing criticism about his political stance, Omokri said, “One important point I want to make clear is that, unfortunately for political reasons, I have had to oppose Peter Obi because of my strong loyalty to my party and my country.” He added, “Peter Obi contested against my party’s candidate, Waziri Atiku Abubakar. I played a key role in bringing them together. I felt a responsibility to ensure my candidate’s success.”

Omokri also referenced the Supreme Court’s judgment on October 26, 2022, regarding the presidential election, saying, “My allegiance switched completely to my country and its president after the Supreme Court’s judgment. I am certain that I made the right choice.”

He rejected claims that his actions were harmful to Nigeria, stating, “There’s a misconception among some that I opposed Nigeria. Nothing could be farther from the truth.” Highlighting his literary work, Omokri said he wrote a column from 2016 until the previous year, including 17 articles appreciating the Igbo people. “I wouldn’t do that if I didn’t have a strong love and respect for the Igbo community,” he said.

Omokri also spoke about his family, mentioning his child named Ebele, Ebelechuku, and said, “I would not choose an Igbo name for my child if I did not have significant love and connection to the Igbo people.”

He recalled his philanthropic efforts during the COVID-19 lockdown, stating, “Throughout the lockdown, I contributed just over $10,000 to support Nigerians,” with 40% of the aid going to people of Igbo descent. He also mentioned his support following the 2019 Onitsha market fire, saying, “I provided financial assistance following the Onitsha market fire,” and noted that traders had publicly thanked him, albeit mistakenly calling him Raymond Omokri in a video.

This visit and video reaffirm Omokri’s respect for the Igbo people and clarify his political loyalties and actions.