By Sola Ojewusi
In a dramatic twist, Kemi Badenoch, Britain’s Conservative Leader and erstwhile Secretary of State for Business and Trade, has faced sharp criticism from a prominent British journalist, Albie Amankona for her controversial remarks about Nigeria, the country of her birth.
The journalist lambasted Badenoch’s negative comments as uncharitable, unwise, and diplomatically inappropriate, pointing out that such remarks are unbecoming of a figure who owes part of her personal and professional identity to her Nigerian roots.
During a recent public engagement, Badenoch reportedly made disparaging remarks about Nigeria’s governance and societal issues, painting the nation in a less-than-flattering light. This drew the criticism of the journalist, who highlighted a stark contrast between Badenoch and former UK Home Secretary Priti Patel. Patel, despite being a staunch British politician, has consistently spoken with pride about her Indian heritage, refusing to denigrate her ancestral homeland in any forum. “The Nigerian Vice President told her to change her name! That’s embarrassing!” exclaimed Amankona.
Amankona’s critique underscored Nigeria’s pivotal role as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies and a continental powerhouse. According to him, “It’s not a very good look for Kemi Badenoch.” The journalist contends that for someone whose roots are deeply tied to a nation that leads Africa in business, technology, and cultural exports, Badenoch’s comments are not only disappointing but also reveal a lack of perspective. Other critics of Badenoch also opine that Nigeria, despite its challenges, continues to inspire global admiration for its resilience and innovation.
The fallout from Badenoch’s comments has been swift and harsh, with many Nigerians reacting angrily. Social media platforms have been awash with sharp rebukes, with some describing her in unprintable terms and questioning her loyalty to her heritage. Critics argue that her statements were an unnecessary diplomatic faux pas, especially given the sensitivity surrounding the image of African nations in global discourse.
Prominent Nigerian figures and members of the diaspora, not the least Vice President Kashim Shettima have also weighed in, urging Badenoch to reflect on her remarks and consider how they might affect the UK-Nigeria relationship.
In what is fast becoming a diplomatic row, Shettima even suggested that Kemi should change her Nigerian name if she’s so ashamed of her fatherland.
“Words carry weight,” one Nigerian analyst noted. “Instead of tearing down her country of origin, she could focus on bridging gaps and fostering mutual respect.”
As the backlash intensifies, observers have suggested that Badenoch could take a leaf from the likes of Priti Patel, whose consistent pride in her Indian heritage has earned her respect both within and beyond her community. Badenoch’s future engagements, many suggest, will need to strike a more respectful tone to repair the damage her comments have caused.
For now, Nigerians continue to vent their frustration, viewing the episode as yet another example of a public figure forgetting the significance of their roots. Whether Badenoch will address the uproar or let the storm pass remains to be seen.
Below is the video courtesy of BBC:
