Stop Calling Tinubu ‘Bola’, Apologise to Him — Reno Omokri Tells Atiku

Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to apologise to President Bola Tinubu for repeatedly addressing him as “Bola” during a press conference.

In an open letter titled “Why Waziri Atiku Abubakar Should Apologise To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Omokri argued that political disagreement should not prevent recognition of the President’s office.

He said Atiku could strongly challenge the administration’s policies while still using the President’s official title.

Omokri Calls for Respectful Political Exchanges

Omokri maintained that addressing Tinubu by his first name set an undesirable example for younger Nigerians and weakened the tone of opposition politics.

He urged Atiku to acknowledge what he described as an error and demonstrate the standards of conduct expected of an aspiring national leader.

“Therefore, shouldn’t you treat others as you would like to be treated?” Omokri asked.

His intervention comes as political camps prepare for the presidential election, with Atiku’s supporters organising through the ADC presidential campaign council and Tinubu’s backers expanding grassroots mobilisation in northern Nigeria.

Letter Draws Comparisons With Buhari and Obasanjo

Omokri contrasted Atiku’s references to Tinubu with his treatment of former presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Olusegun Obasanjo, saying he had retained their presidential titles despite political differences.

He also recalled Tinubu’s support for Atiku during his dispute with Obasanjo, including the opportunity to contest on the Action Congress platform.

Omokri argued that respect for the presidency should remain consistent regardless of the individual occupying it.

Criticism Should Focus on Policies, Omokri Says

The former presidential aide defended opposition criticism as part of democracy but urged Atiku to separate scrutiny of government from personal familiarity in public exchanges.

Policy disagreements between the political camps include Atiku’s proposals on fuel subsidy and domestic refining, his position on reopening borders for trade and Tinubu’s defence of his economic reforms.

Omokri concluded by appealing for an apology and a better example of democratic conduct.