Reno Omokri, previously a vocal critic of President Bola Tinubu, has publicly shifted his stance, now expressing support for the President. Omokri attributes this change to several factors, including policy alignments and personal interactions.
Policy Alignment and Economic Reforms
Omokri has long advocated for specific reforms in Nigeria, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, privatization of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), floating the Naira, and devolving power to state and local governments. He observes that President Tinubu’s administration has initiated several of these measures, aligning with his own policy preferences. Omokri states, “Since he was sworn in, President Tinubu has demonstrated that he is keeping faith with the progressive ideas of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and the late visionary, Kakanfo Moshood Abiola.”
Economic and Security Improvements
Omokri highlights tangible improvements under Tinubu’s leadership, citing a trade surplus of ₦14 trillion in the first half of 2024 and enhanced security measures, including the elimination of notorious bandit leaders in the North-West. He compares Nigeria’s current trajectory to Vietnam’s economic rise, noting, “Right now, we’re like Vietnam, our currency is now being stabilised, we’re now having more goods manufactured in Nigeria.”
Personal Interactions and Reconciliation
Beyond policy considerations, Omokri emphasizes the importance of reconciliation and unity. He references a meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Independence Day, sharing, “Spending Independence Day with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa. May God bless Nigeria.”
Conclusion
Omokri’s shift underscores the dynamic nature of political perspectives, influenced by policy actions and personal engagements. He calls for national unity, urging, “Make peace with those willing to make peace with you, and only make war with those who have themselves first made war on you.”
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