Reno Omokri Refutes Atiku Abubakar’s Claim on Tinubu’s Age

Reno Omokri, the Ambassador-designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua, has publicly contested claims made by the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding President Bola Tinubu’s age. The dispute centers on Atiku’s assertion that President Tinubu is 90 years old, a claim Omokri has challenged for lack of evidence and accuracy.

In a statement released on Friday, Omokri directly confronted Atiku’s allegation, which was made during an interview with the BBC. Atiku stated, “I have a president who is 90 years old now, and who is sick, and I am healthy, I am strong, so why would I not make my services available to my fellow countrymen?” This comment sparked significant political discourse and scrutiny of the president’s age and health.

Omokri’s rebuttal not only targets Atiku’s claim but also calls upon journalist and publisher Dele Momodu to verify the authenticity of a photograph that Momodu purportedly took with President Tinubu in London in 1996. This photograph has been cited in public discussions as evidence countering Atiku’s assertion about Tinubu’s age.

The ambassador-designate emphasized the importance of substantiating such claims, especially when they concern the reputation and integrity of a sitting president. Omokri insists that any allegations about the president’s age or health should be backed by credible evidence rather than conjecture or political motivations.

This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions and contestations within Nigerian political circles, particularly as it relates to leadership qualifications and transparency. The age and health of political leaders remain sensitive topics in Nigeria, given the implications for governance and national stability.

Omokri’s challenge to both Atiku and Momodu underscores the necessity for accountability in public discourse. By demanding proof, Omokri is advocating for a fact-based conversation that respects the dignity of the office of the president and the democratic process.

The political rivalry between Atiku Abubakar and Bola Tinubu continues to be a focal point in Nigerian politics, with issues such as age and fitness for office being central to public debate. This recent development adds to the complex narrative surrounding the country’s leadership and the standards expected of its leaders.

As the situation unfolds, Nigerians and observers alike await further clarifications and evidence to either confirm or dispel the claims made. Meanwhile, the call for transparency and truth remains paramount in maintaining trust and confidence in the nation’s governance.