The leader of the United Kingdom Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has affirmed her position on comments about Nigeria despite criticism from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who accused her of tarnishing the country’s image.
Badenoch, who was born in the UK but spent much of her childhood in Nigeria, often recounts her experiences growing up in a nation she describes as riddled with corruption, insecurity, and political failures.
In a prior statement, Badenoch criticised Nigeria’s political landscape, saying, “I grew up in Nigeria, and I saw firsthand what happens when politicians are in it for themselves, when they use public money as their private piggy banks, when they pollute the whole political atmosphere with their failure to serve others.
“I saw what socialism is for millions. I saw poverty and broken dreams. I came to Britain to make my way in a country where hard work and honest endeavour can take you anywhere.”
Her remarks drew sharp rebuke from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who on Monday accused Badenoch of disparaging Nigeria. Drawing a comparison to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, of Indian descent, Shettima noted that Sunak has consistently spoken positively about his ancestral country.
Shettima urged Badenoch to reconsider her stance and questioned her attachment to her heritage. “If she doesn’t want to identify with Nigeria, she should change her first name,” he said.
In response to Shettima’s comments, a spokesman for Badenoch reaffirmed her position, stating that she has no intention of altering her views to appease critics.
“She is the leader of the opposition, and she is very proud of her leadership of the opposition in this country.
“She tells the truth. She tells it like it is. She’s not going to couch her words, and she stands by what she says,” the spokesman declared.
