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Reno Omokri, former presidential aide and social commentator, has sparked a storm on social media after commenting on the recent tragic death of Arise TV anchor, Sommie Maduagwu. Sommie reportedly died during a robbery incident at her home in the Katampe area of Abuja on September 29, 2025.
The incident reignited discussions about security in Nigeria, with many citizens taking to social media to express grief, anger, and frustration over the rising insecurity in the country.
In a post on his Instagram page, Omokri reminded Nigerians that tragic events occur globally, citing examples such as South African musician Lucky Dube, who was shot and killed during a robbery in Johannesburg, reggae legend Bob Marley, who experienced a home invasion in Kingston, Jamaica, and John Lennon, who was murdered in New York.
He also mentioned Emmanuel Odunlami, a British-Nigerian music manager killed by armed robbers in London, and the recent mass shooting at a church in Michigan, United States.
Omokri argued that the death of citizens, while tragic, should not be interpreted as evidence that Nigeria is a failed nation.
He wrote, “This is Earth. Bad things occur globally despite the best efforts of human government. The death of any citizen is one death too many, and a deplorable tragedy. But that does not mean Nigeria is finished, or that ‘Nigeria happened’ to the victim.”
He concluded his post with a biblical quote from Ecclesiastes 9:11: “Time and chance happen to them all.”
His comments, however, have drawn widespread criticism. Many Nigerians accused him of downplaying local insecurity and using global examples to distract from systemic failures within the country.
Social media users argued that, unlike other nations with functional security systems and emergency responses, Nigeria’s citizens are often left vulnerable, with little hope for justice or protection.
Critics highlighted that Omokri’s commentary appears detached from the harsh realities Nigerians face daily, especially as the country grapples with rampant armed robberies, kidnappings, and ineffective law enforcement.
Users called out what they described as his selective outrage and perceived alignment with the government, claiming that his comparisons to international incidents fail to acknowledge the structural issues exacerbating insecurity in Nigeria.
The debate underscores the deep frustration among Nigerians over persistent insecurity and the role of public figures in shaping discourse.
While Omokri seeks to contextualize tragedy within a global perspective, many see his statements as insensitive, particularly to the grieving family of Sommie Maduagwu and other victims of violent crimes.
As the conversation continues online, Nigerians are demanding accountability from authorities to ensure safety in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. The debate also highlights the delicate balance between global perspective and local realities when discussing issues of national concern.
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