Ambassador-designate Reno Omokri has issued a strong rebuke against what he describes as the deliberate de-marketing of Nigeria following a tragic road accident involving world-renowned boxer Anthony Joshua.
Details of the Tragic Accident
The incident occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Preliminary reports confirm that the boxing champion sustained injuries, while two of his associates lost their lives in the fatal crash. The news sent shockwaves through the nation and the international sports community.
Omokri's Stern Warning Against Negative Narratives
In a post shared on his official X handle (@renoomokri), Omokri expressed deep concern over the immediate reaction from some Nigerian social media users. He urged the public to seek full and accurate details of the event before making statements that could damage the country's image internationally.
"Your first instincts are to attack Nigeria and paint the worst possible picture to the outside world," Omokri stated. He revealed that international news outlets from countries like India and Australia were picking up and amplifying these negative narratives from Nigerian X users.
These reports falsely claimed that no first responders arrived to assist at the scene of Anthony Joshua's accident, painting a picture of a failed state. Omokri vehemently dismissed this claim.
Official Response and Cause of the Accident
Setting the record straight, the former presidential aide confirmed that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) arrived at the scene within the first few minutes of the accident. He emphasized the professionalism and promptness of the emergency response.
Regarding the cause of the fatalities, Omokri cited preliminary official reports which indicated that the deaths were instantaneous and not caused by any negligence in the emergency response. The official cause has been attributed to collision trauma resulting from "excessive speed."
Omokri concluded his statement by offering condolences, saying, "May God grant fortitude to their families," in reference to the families of the two deceased associates.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about national perception, responsible social media use, and road safety on one of Nigeria's most critical highways.
