Dare Babalola
Former presidential aide and public commentator Reno Omokri has stirred fresh conversation on identity and cultural pride following a detailed social media post addressing chess champion Tunde Onakoya.
In the lengthy message shared on Tuesday, Omokri praised Onakoya’s recent cultural outing at the Musée du Louvre, where the Nigerian chess star appeared in traditional attire, describing the appearance as bold and dignified.
He wrote, “Your outfit was not ‘retarded’ in any way, shape, or form. It was regal, celebratory, and eye-catching. Of course, such an outfit would intimidate people. It is easier to blend in and takes more strength to refuse to surrender your culture to another. Your actions show strength of character. Kudos!”
Omokri, however, took issue with Onakoya’s reported use of the word “tribe” in reference to Yoruba identity, arguing that the term diminishes the historical and cultural standing of the people.
“Permit me to assert that Yoruba is not a tribe. That is a misnomer. Yoruba is an ethnic nationality, not a tribe. When you misidentify Lukumi Yoruba as a tribe, you belittle your people, ancestors, and yourself.”
Expanding on his argument, Omokri drew comparisons with European identities, noting that citizens of Belgium do not describe themselves as tribes despite their diverse linguistic groups.
He also highlighted the population size and literacy levels of the Yoruba people, insisting such attributes place them beyond what he described as the limitations implied by the word “tribe.”
The former aide further referenced historical accounts by Ibn Battuta to underscore the long-standing civilisation of the Yoruba people, noting that their societal structures predate many modern European nations.
“This was at a time when many nations in Europe did not exist. It is not possible for a tribe to be that organised and have such staying power.”
Omokri concluded his message by commending Onakoya for projecting Nigerian culture on the global stage, describing him as “a good ambassador” whose efforts have made millions proud.
