6 Things Kemi Badenoch Said That Got Nigerians Talking

Kemi Badenoch, a British politician of Nigerian descent, has often made headlines for her remarks about Nigeria. Many Nigerians feel she portrays the country in a negative light, using her Nigerian background to emphasize struggles she claims to have faced. 

While some see her comments as honest criticism, others believe she is deliberately distancing herself from her heritage for political gain. Here are some statements she made that sparked strong reactions from Nigerians:

Nigeria destroys lives

In a speech at a UK think tank event, Badenoch compared Nigeria’s governance to that of Britain. She spoke about growing up in Nigeria, watching her family’s wealth disappear due to inflation, and witnessing “terrible governments that destroy lives.”

Her words did not sit well with many Nigerians, who felt she was exaggerating Nigeria’s problems to make a political point. Critics accused her of using her background as a tool to scare British voters.

Nigerian police stole my brother’s shoes.

During an interview, Badenoch recalled how the Nigerian police allegedly robbed her family. She claimed they once stole her brother’s shoes and watch, painting the police force as corrupt and unreliable.

While Nigerians acknowledge issues of corruption in the police force, many found her comments unnecessary and disrespectful. A Nigerian police officer even reminded her that the UK’s own police force had once been plagued by corruption before undergoing reforms.

Her controversial immigration proposal

Badenoch’s proposed immigration reforms, which included extending the waiting period for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK from five to ten years, upset many Nigerians.

Since a significant number of Nigerians migrate to the UK for better opportunities, these policies were seen as an attack on hardworking immigrants. 

Many Nigerians on social media accused her of making life harder for people from her own background.

I don’t do PR for Nigeria

After Vice President Kashim Shettima criticized her for speaking negatively about Nigeria, Badenoch responded that she was not a spokesperson for the country.

Her blunt response angered many Nigerians, who felt she was distancing herself too much from her roots. While she has the right to criticize Nigeria, some believe she takes it too far and ignores the country’s positive aspects.

Yoruba is my true identity

Badenoch further stirred controversy by claiming that she only identified with her Yoruba heritage and had nothing in common with Northern Nigerians.

This statement was seen as divisive, especially in a country where ethnic tensions have long been an issue. Many Nigerians criticized her for fueling division instead of promoting unity.

Nigerian politicians steal

During her campaign for the UK Prime Minister seat, Badenoch accused Nigerian politicians of corruption and self-interest. She stated that she had witnessed leaders in 

Nigeria treat public money as their “piggy banks” while failing to serve the people.

While corruption is a major issue in Nigeria, many Nigerians felt her statement was an unnecessary attack. Some pointed out that corruption exists everywhere, including in British politics.