Political commentator Reno Omokri has defended President Bola Tinubu amid renewed calls for the release of FBI records, arguing that while the documents may not be directly harmful, they could be weaponized by political opponents.
Speaking on the matter, Omokri said the records in question are highly sensitive and should not be made public.
“They are not going to be harmful to the president or to his campaign but they can be used as potty in the hands of his political opponents to set up the president to incriminate the president,” Omokri said.
He stressed the personal nature of the files, listing biometric data, DNA, blood group, family and financial records as part of what could be exposed
“Like I told you these are biometric records, they are DNA records, they are blood group records, their familial records, their accounting records. You don’t want those records in the hands of your enemies,” he said.
Omokri drew a parallel to ordinary citizens, asking if anyone would agree to have such information released.
“If you, Seun, were asked by the U.S embassy, can we release all of your biometric data to the public, I’m sure you’re not going to agree because it is sensitive record, including your medical records,” he added.
The commentator also argued that the issue has already been settled in court.
“Listen, like I said before, these issues were litigated fully in 2023, not just here in Nigeria, also in the United States. It is political desperation by people who do not have issues to try to re-litigate these issues again,” Omokri stated.
The renewed debate follows fresh demands by some opposition figures for U.S authorities to release documents relating to President Tinubu. Supporters of the president maintain the matter was resolved during the 2023 election petitions both in Nigeria and in U.S courts.
Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has in recent months been vocal in defending the Tinubu administration against criticisms.
