Kemi Badenoch’s provocative response to Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, is highly inappropriate for a British-trained politician, regardless of her dual citizenship. Her remarks are condemnable for several reasons.
First, the Office of the Vice President of Nigeria demands unconditional respect. Disrespecting Vice President Shettima is equivalent to disrespecting the office and the nation he represents. Additionally, Yoruba cultural values emphasize unwavering respect for elders, regardless of circumstances. If Badenoch is truly of Yoruba heritage, her response suggests a disregard for these fundamental principles of upbringing and respect.
Furthermore, Badenoch could have communicated her perspective in a more measured and diplomatic manner. Her confrontational approach is unjustifiable and shows a lack of political tact. It is vital for her to recognize that taking on the Vice President of Nigeria—a leading economy in Africa and an important trading partner for the UK—could have significant repercussions. The British government prioritizes its relations with Nigeria and will likely act to protect its interests.
It is also essential to challenge her disparagement of Nigeria. Every nation faces societal and security challenges. The UK itself grapples with issues such as mugging, gang violence, food insecurity, and homelessness. Similarly, countries like India, China, and the USA face demographic and socio-economic issues, yet their citizens refrain from publicly disparaging their homelands. This is a demonstration of patriotism, which Badenoch, as a dual citizen, should embody.
Notably, other UK politicians of foreign heritage, such as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, refrain from criticizing their countries of origin. Badenoch should learn from their example. Criticizing Nigeria not only undermines her cultural roots but also risks alienating a critical segment of the UK’s international partnerships and communities.
Kemi Badenoch’s parents should step in to address their daughter’s behavior, which reflects poorly on her Yoruba upbringing, unless they have lost influence over her actions. The National Patriots unequivocally condemn her public disparagement of Nigeria and demand an unreserved apology to the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Nigerian people for portraying only the negative aspects of the country while ignoring the positives.
Kemi cannot deny having had any good experiences in Nigeria. Is she suggesting there is nothing positive about the country? Millions of Nigerians in the diaspora return home every Christmas to enjoy the festive atmosphere and vibrant celebrations, often without fear or hesitation. My husband, a Scottish professional, appreciates Nigeria and its unique qualities and prefers living in Nigeria than the UK.
He refers to Nigeria as the World’s best kept secret.
Kemi owes Vice President Shettima and Nigerians an apology for her unbalanced portrayal of the nation. South Africa faces greater insecurity and poverty challenges, yet its citizens do not disparage their country in such a manner. This indicates that Kemi may lack the awareness and exposure necessary to understand the complexities of global issues before criticizing Nigeria.
Nigeria does not need Kemi’s public relations; the global achievements of Nigerians speak for themselves. Kemi, a product of Nigeria, benefits from this legacy. If she feels otherwise, she should consider changing her Nigerian name. It is clear that she is the one in need of PR, as her irrational, uncultured, and unrestrained temperament proves she is unfit for such a significant political position in the UK. This controversy has the potential to derail her career.
Princess Gloria Adebajo- Fraser. MFR
Founder, The National Patriots.
CEO, Fraser Consulting ltd
CEO, Eden & Mcwhit Global Services.
