A prominent Yoruba diaspora group, Yoruba One Voice, has called on the Nigerian Federal Government to prioritize addressing the nation’s pressing challenges instead of targeting Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the British Conservative Party.
The group expressed its disappointment over the backlash Badenoch has faced following her recent remarks about Nigeria, according to Politics Nigeria.
Badenoch made headlines after stating that she does not believe Nigeria is a functioning entity. YOV argued that her statement reflects the frustrations of many Nigerians abroad who continue to struggle with issues such as corruption, insecurity, and economic instability in the country.
According to YOV, Badenoch’s comments were made in good faith and resonate with the views of many Nigerians in the diaspora who are disillusioned by the current state of their home country. The group believes that, instead of attacking her, the Nigerian government should focus on addressing the root causes of the nation’s poor global image.
The group also emphasized that Badenoch’s achievements as a Yoruba woman in the UK should be celebrated. Many Nigerians abroad share similar concerns about the country’s situation but lack the platform to express them publicly. The worsening insecurity, injustice, and corruption in Nigeria make it difficult for many in the diaspora to proudly identify with the country.
YOV pointed to the increasing trend of Nigerians renouncing their citizenship in favor of foreign passports, a phenomenon known as the “Japa syndrome.” The group also expressed concern about the mass exodus of skilled professionals, including over 100,000 doctors and nurses, and the strained diplomatic relations between Nigeria and countries like the United Arab Emirates and South Africa. These issues, according to YOV, stem from poor governance and economic challenges at home.
The group also noted that Yoruba culture stresses the importance of supporting individuals who have made significant contributions to society, especially during difficult times. Badenoch’s rise to prominence, including her bid for the position of British Prime Minister, should be seen as a source of pride for Nigeria and the Yoruba people.
YOV urged the Nigerian government to focus on addressing the systemic issues of insecurity, corruption, and poor economic conditions rather than attacking individuals who express their opinions. The group stressed that by tackling these challenges, Nigeria could regain the trust and pride of its citizens both at home and abroad.
The group warned that the global community is closely observing Nigeria’s response to such issues, and continued attacks on Badenoch only invite further scrutiny of the country’s governance failures. It is time, according to YOV, to shift the focus from blame to the urgent need for reform.
“Kemi Badenoch is entitled to her opinion and belief. Her statement was made in good faith and represented the views of countless Nigerians in the diaspora who feel disillusioned about the state of the nation.
“Instead of attacking her, the Federal Government should address the underlying issues that have tarnished Nigeria’s global image,” Ademiluyi said.
He continued, “The growing insecurity, injustice, and corruption in Nigeria make it difficult for many Nigerians in the diaspora to proudly identify with the country.
” “It is disheartening that countries we once supported, such as the UAE and South Africa, now restrict Nigerians from entering their borders.
“These situations arise from the poor governance and economic downturn back home. Instead of attacking a prominent figure like Badenoch, efforts should be directed toward rebuilding Nigeria’s global reputation.
“Kemi Badenoch’s words should serve as a wake-up call for the government to take meaningful action to restore faith in the nation,” he stated.
“Kemi Badenoch is a global icon who has made Nigeria and the Yoruba people proud. She contested for the position of British Prime Minister, which is a monumental achievement. Attacking her only draws negative attention to Nigeria.”
“The world is watching. The more Nigerians attack Kemi Badenoch, the more the global community scrutinizes Nigeria’s governance failures. It’s time to stop the blame game and start fixing the issues that matter,” Ademiluyi added.
