Former Blanco City Mayor Mike Arnold has accused Nigerian political commentator Reno Omokri of manipulation and inconsistency over his stance on religious violence in northern Nigeria. Arnold made the allegations following a recent visit to Nigeria.
He claimed Omokri reversed his position on the alleged Christian genocide, calling it a hoax after previously raising global awareness. Arnold described the shift as dishonest and lacking credibility.
“Reno clearly just says whatever he is paid to say,” Arnold stated. “He didn’t refute his previous claims; he just ignored them as if he never said that.”
Arnold also alleged that Omokri cultivated their relationship for publicity, not genuine advocacy. He said Omokri used his status as a mayor to boost his own image, calling the friendship a calculated PR move.
Their relationship reportedly began in December 2023 after Arnold contacted Omokri through his website. Omokri responded via WhatsApp and later invited Arnold to his birthday celebration in Kenya, promising high-profile guests.
Arnold said former President Goodluck Jonathan did not attend the event, contrary to Omokri’s assurances. He added that Omokri only paid half of his airfare and misrepresented a symbolic “key to the city” as an official gesture.
“That was a souvenir key from a gift shop,” Arnold clarified. “It was not an official act as mayor.”
The controversy has reignited debate over religious violence in Nigeria. Omokri, once vocal about Christian persecution, has recently dismissed such claims as politically driven.
Human rights groups maintain that the violence meets the criteria for genocide, citing mass killings and church attacks. Others argue the crisis stems from terrorism and communal conflict rather than religious targeting.
Omokri declined to comment. His silence is notable given his history of swift responses to public criticism.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions around narratives of religious violence in Nigeria and the role of public figures in shaping global perceptions.
