Davido and Reno Omokri argue over World Cup jacket

A public dispute has erupted between Nigerian music star Davido and former presidential aide Reno Omokri, who is the ambassador-designate to Mexico, following Omokri's criticism of the singer's advocacy at a FIFA World Cup event. The exchange, which played out on social media on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, centered on Davido's decision to wear a custom jacket highlighting a recent kidnapping during a World Cup concert.

The controversy began after Davido performed at a FIFA World Cup countdown concert in Los Angeles. During his performance, he wore a jacket bearing the names of over 40 pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State in May, along with the message "Bring Them Home." While the gesture was praised by many, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, it drew criticism from Reno Omokri.

Omokri argued that using such a prominent global platform to spotlight kidnappings inadvertently gives terrorists and bandits the publicity they seek. In a detailed statement posted on his Instagram page on Tuesday, he contended that while Davido's intentions may have been good, the effect could be to help such groups spread fear, recruit new members, and raise funds. He...