Reno Omokri Explains Why He Will No Longer Promote Aba-Made Shoes

Reno Omokri Explains Why He Will No Longer Promote Aba-Made Shoes

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Former Presidential Aide Cites Mental Health and Backlash as Reasons

Former presidential aide and bestselling author, Reno Omokri, has revealed why he will no longer promote Aba-made shoes despite his long-standing admiration for the Igbo people of Nigeria.

Akahi News gathered that Omokri made the disclosure in a statement shared on his official X handle, where he recounted how his genuine efforts to support locally made products turned into what he described as one of the most humiliating experiences of his life.

“Never Been So Insulted” – Omokri

Omokri explained that he had taken a vow never to promote any merchandise of Igbo origin again, except if duty-bound as a public officer.

“I have taken a vow NEVER to promote any merchandise of Igbo origin, except if I am in a public office and have to do it as part of my duties. The reason is that I have NEVER been as insulted as the day I wore Aba-made shoes to promote that industry,” he stated.

According to Omokri, the irony was that it was people of Igbo origin themselves who ridiculed him for wearing the shoes, despite his patriotic intentions. He noted that the backlash trended on social media for three days and even made the front pages of two national newspapers, describing the experience as damaging to his #GrowNairaBuyNaija campaign.

Long-Standing Support for Ndi’Igbo

Omokri expressed disappointment that some people lacked what he called “institutional memory” of his contributions to the Igbo community. He highlighted that:

• He consistently criticised former President Muhammadu Buhari’s government for alleged unfair treatment of the South-East.
• His charitable projects had benefitted Ndi’Igbo even more than his own Itsekiri people.

Despite this, he said many only value immediate benefits and forget long-term advocacy and support.

Decision Based on Mental Health, Not Hatred

“For my mental health, I believe there are better-suited persons than myself to promote Aba-made shoes. I wish Aba shoemakers well, and as God sees my heart, I tried to help them without seeking any benefit. But some of our people are not the easiest to deal with, and I have to be mentally stable for my family and country,” Omokri concluded.

He emphasised that his decision was purely out of self-preservation and not hatred for Ndi’Igbo, noting that he still respects and admires the people and culture.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org

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