Reno Omokri urges Nigerians to support Burna Boy amid US tour backlash, stressing national solidarity over public criticism

Former presidential aide and social commentator Reno Omokri has called on Nigerians to stop criticising Grammy winner Burna Boy online and instead show solidarity with the Afrobeats star.

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Omokri, in a statement shared on social media Saturday, said the backlash against Burna Boy during his ongoing US tour was “saddening” and detrimental to Nigeria’s image.

“Burna Boy has repeatedly said Nigerians did not make him, and that he rose to the top because of foreigners. To a large extent, he is right. Now, since we did not push him up, the least we can do is not pull him down,” Omokri wrote.

The social commentator added that even though he is not a fan of Burna Boy, the singer deserves national support in difficult times.

He urged Nigerians to adopt the protective attitude shown by South Africans toward singer Tyla when she faced criticism abroad.

Omokri argued that any perceived failings should be addressed privately, warning that public criticism by Nigerians “makes us look like animals who devour our own young.”

He cited past experiences with artistes like Rema and the late MohBad, noting that Nigerian celebrities often face harsher judgement at home than from international audiences.

“Many foreigners only have a positive image of Nigeria and Nigerians because of people like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Nollywood stars. It is in our own enlightened self-interest to protect these brands,” he said.

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Despite the backlash, Omokri insisted Burna Boy’s talent and global influence remain intact, concluding: “Since we did not make him, we cannot break him.”