Nigerian social media was set ablaze over the weekend after former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, made a series of controversial statements regarding Igbo cultural identity and the political past of Labour Party leader, Peter Obi.
In a now-viral post on X (formerly Twitter), Omokri asserted that the widely respected Igbo red cap and wrapper, often worn by titled men and elders, are not of Nigerian origin.
According to him, “This Igbo red cap and wrapper is not of Nigerian origin, it is a European winter cap used by the colonialist and the wrapper is originally from Poland named after King George.”
His comments have since drawn heavy criticism, with many accusing him of cultural insensitivity and historical distortion.
While the dust had yet to settle from his remarks on traditional attire, Omokri made another explosive revelation. He claimed that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, desperately lobbied to become Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in 2019.
“We packaged Peter Obi as Atiku’s running mate in 2019. He sent me his CV unsolicited and was calling me on phone if I had seen his CV. If he denies it, I will disgrace him,” Omokri stated, adding that his previous support for Obi was merely out of loyalty to former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The dual revelations have thrown social media into chaos, sparking fierce debates about cultural authenticity, political ambition, and the credibility of political narratives. While some see Omokri’s claims as attempts to stir controversy and remain relevant, others are demanding clarifications from Peter Obi and the PDP campaign operatives from 2019.
As if the weekend couldn’t get more dramatic, other viral stories added to the frenzy. A group was reportedly attacked while attempting to convert dollars to naira in Allen, Lagos.
In another incident, a well-known brothel in Ibadan was demolished, sparking mixed reactions from residents. Additionally, a pastor named Amos Isah was arrested by the Abuja Division of the FCID for allegedly defiling a minor, further shocking the public and fueling the online storm.
With emotions running high and reactions pouring in, Reno Omokri’s statements have not only touched nerves but reopened conversations on cultural pride, political history, and leadership integrity.
Whether Peter Obi or any traditional institution responds officially remains to be seen, but for now, the debate continues to rage online.