A social media dispute has ignited in Nigeria following comments made by Kemi Badenoch, a prominent British politician raised in Nigeria, after Vice President Kashim Shettima condemned her critical remarks about the country.
Badenoch, born in London to Nigerian parents and raised in Lagos, has served as a Conservative MP since 2017. She became the head of Britain’s Conservative Party in November, campaigning on a right-wing platform that emphasized “anti-wokeism” and included controversial statements. Among her frequent criticisms of Nigeria are its widespread corruption and security challenges. She has also sparked debate over immigration policies, stating that “not all cultures are equally valid” when deciding who should be allowed to settle in the UK.
In response to her comments, Vice President Shettima expressed disappointment during a migration summit in Abuja on Monday, asserting, “We are proud of her in spite of her denigrating her nation of origin. She’s entitled to her own opinions, and she even has the right to remove the Kemi from her name. But that does not change the fact that the greatest Black nation on earth is Nigeria.”
Shettima’s remarks quickly ignited reactions online, with many users divided over his stance. Some criticized his focus on Badenoch instead of addressing Nigeria’s issues. “Kashim Shettima, instead of dragging Kemi Badenoch, fix Nigeria!” wrote user Ifeanyi Onuoha. “While you and your boss jet-set achieving nothing, Nigerian citizens struggle daily. Kemi’s leadership outshines your entire regime; she’s a leader; you’re just a tourist.”
Others, however, supported Shettima’s defense of Nigeria. “This is my Vice President!!! The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria! I and my descendants will always be proud to be Nigerians no matter where we go!” said user IbibioPrince.
Badenoch, who has frequently expressed her disappointment with Nigerian politics, previously shared her experiences growing up in Nigeria, describing the poverty and corruption she witnessed. “I grew up in Nigeria and I saw firsthand what happens when politicians are in it for themselves,” she stated. “I came to Britain to make my way in a country where hard work and honest endeavor can take you anywhere.”
Her remarks have often led to backlash from those who feel she is undermining Nigeria. “She should stop being stupid by denigrating Nigeria all the time just to please her slave masters,” said Omo Oduduwa, a social media user.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Badenoch clarified her position, saying, “Kemi is not trying to promote Nigeria, she is the leader of the opposition in the UK.”
