Reno Omokri Slams Netflix’s The Herd: “A Cinematic Triumph That Damages Nigeria and Islam”
By Passman Akpos
Outspoken commentator and bestselling author, Reno Omokri, has raised alarms over the global impact of Netflix’s new film, The Herd, warning that the blockbuster’s depiction of Nigeria could inflict long-lasting reputational damage on both the nation and its Muslim population.
.In a strongly worded critique, Omokri praised the movie’s cinematography but condemned what he described as a reckless portrayal of insecurity, extremism, and social decay.
> “Yes, I admit Nigeria has insecurity issues. However, projecting Nigeria in the manner our society is cast in the movie adds to the reputational damage Nigeria is facing,” he said.
According to Omokri, international viewers with little context about Nigeria will walk away from The Herd with fear, prejudice, and a hardened negative perception of the country.
> “No foreigner who watches The Herd will have a positive image of Nigeria, and they will be less likely to visit or invest in our country after watching this opus,” he warned.
Omokri argued that while Nigeria battles “serious bad press,” its film industry should be countering the stereotype—not reinforcing it. He contrasted Hollywood’s global influence, noting that American films often omit or downplay the country’s real struggles with gun violence and drug abuse.
> “When you watch an American movie, you are often watching an advert that makes you fall in love with the USA,” he said, insisting that other nations use cinema as soft power, not self-sabotage.
He cautioned Nigerians celebrating the film’s production quality to consider the long-term implications:
> “In a few weeks or months, when you’re having an online argument with a foreigner, they will use the happenings in this movie against you. ‘Are you not a Nigerian? Is this not what happens in your country?’”
Signing off, Omokri reminded audiences of his reputation—“Gospeller. Deep Thinker. Table Shaker. Ruffler of the Feathers of Obidents”—and his track record as a bestselling author and global influencer.
