Dr. Josef Onoh has described the Nigerian Senate Committee’s decision to grant Mr. Reno Omokri a “take a bow and go” clearance as a “national disgrace” and “a devastating blow to the very soul of Nigeria’s democracy.”
In a strongly worded statement issued on December 11, 2025, Onoh said the Senate’s gesture was not just a procedural oversight but “an irreparable stain on our national honour.”
According to him, the committee’s action has dealt a damaging blow to the country’s democratic institutions, stating:
“In one second of politics over principle, a few men unable to distinguish, hurriedly extinguished the ‘most distinguish’ they had.”
He argued that by extending such courtesy to a nominee whose public conduct, in his view, has undermined civility and national unity, the Senate had “shredded the thin fabric that still held our democratic institutions together.”
Onoh warned that the decision had not only embarrassed the Red Chamber but also severely damaged Nigeria’s diplomatic image.
“This single act has gravely wounded Nigeria’s international diplomatic reputation and turned the once-respected Red Chamber into an object of global ridicule,” he stated.
He lamented that the title “Most Distinguished,” traditionally associated with Nigerian senators, had lost its value because of what transpired.
“The Senate has surrendered its credibility before the international community, and no press release or belated explanation can restore what was lost today,” he said.
Onoh also cautioned that the clearance had handed the political opposition a significant advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“They will replay this moment endlessly, painting the President as the ultimate beneficiary of a compromised legislature that bows to sycophancy rather than principle,” he warned.
He further argued that while many Nigerians remain silent now, it is not out of approval but fear, adding that the political consequences will be unavoidable when power shifts.
“When power changes hands, the roar of condemnation will be deafening,” he added.
According to Onoh, the Senate’s action has further endangered the stability of the Nigerian state.
“Today, the Senate did not just clear Reno Omokri; it cleared the path for the further erosion of the Nigerian state. And for that, every lover of this country weeps,” he said.
Onoh, however, expressed gratitude to Senator Ali Ndume, commending him for standing up in defense of national integrity.
“I thank Most Distinguished Sen. Ali Ndume, whose voice was heard in defense of our nation’s honour. Nigerians heard you loud and clear; history will be kind to you,” he concluded.
