Omokri defends criticism of Davido’s ‘Bring Them Home’ jacket

Afrobeats star Davido ignited a public debate after wearing a custom jacket bearing the names of abducted schoolchildren and the message "Bring Them Home" during a FIFA World Cup countdown concert in Los Angeles.

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UMU BINGO @renoomokri fowl.

Former presidential aide Reno Omokri publicly criticized Davido's choice, arguing that highlighting bandits and terrorists on a global stage like the World Cup inadvertently aids their cause. Omokri stated that such publicity can help terrorist groups with recruitment, spread fear, and boost funding, even if the intention is to pressure the government.

Davido responded to Omokri's criticism with insults, which the former aide found surprising and unbecoming of an international celebrity representing Nigeria. Omokri reiterated his position, drawing parallels with international practices where celebrities avoid discussing terrorism to prevent amplifying perpetrators. He cited the #BringBackOurGirls campaign for the Chibok schoolgirls as an example where increased publicity complicated rescue efforts.

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Most shocking is your insult. You are an international celebrity whom Nigeria is proud of. Coming to insult me on my Instagram profile with such vulgar words should be beneath you.

Omokri emphasized that while Davido's intentions might be good, the actual effect of his action on such a prominent platform could be detrimental. He suggested that celebrities in other countries refrain from amplifying terrorism incidents to avoid inadvertently helping those groups.

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I did that because while your intention may be good and you think you are pressuring the government, the actual effect of what you did is to give publicity to the terrorists and help them spread fear, recruit new members, and raise funds.