Yemi Olakitan
Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, has reiterated her stance on Nigeria despite backlash from Vice President Kashim Shettima. Badenoch, born in the UK but spent most of her childhood in Nigeria, has consistently spoken out about the country’s corruption and insecurity issues.
Badenoch’s initial comments described her experiences growing up in Nigeria, where she witnessed politicians prioritizing personal gain over public service. She expressed her disillusionment with the country’s socialist system, citing widespread poverty and broken dreams. In contrast, Badenoch praised the UK’s meritocratic system, where hard work and honesty can lead to success.
Vice President Shettima responded to Badenoch’s criticism, accusing her of denigrating Nigeria. However, Badenoch’s aide maintained that she stands by her statements, emphasizing that she is not interested in doing Nigeria’s PR. Instead, Badenoch aims to speak truthfully about her experiences, without sugarcoating the country’s issues.
The exchange has sparked a heated debate, with some Nigerians defending Badenoch’s right to express her opinions, while others criticize her for airing the country’s dirty laundry.
Badenoch, a Conservative MP, became the head of the British Conservative Party in November after campaigning on a right-wing platform championing “anti-wokeism” and marking the contest with sometimes divisive remarks.
She has often criticised Nigeria for its rampant corruption and volatile security climate. And on immigration, she has said that “not all cultures are equally valid” when deciding who should be allowed to live in the UK.
