LONDON, The United Kingdom – Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, has reignited controversy by delivering a sharp critique of Nigeria’s governance, warning that Britain must avoid the consequences of poor leadership.
Speaking at an event organised by the think tank Onward on Thursday, January 16, 2025, Badenoch drew on her personal experiences growing up in Nigeria to advocate for “real conservatism” and systemic reform in Britain.
In her first speech of the year, Badenoch described her childhood in Nigeria, a country she characterised as plagued by corruption and mismanagement.
“I grew up in a poor country and watched my relatively wealthy family become poorer and poorer, despite working harder and harder as their money disappeared with inflation,” Badenoch said.
“I have lived with the consequences of terrible governments that destroy lives, and I never, ever want it to happen here.”
Badenoch recounted moving to the UK at the age of 16 with her father’s last £100, driven by the hope of a better future.
She positioned her experiences as a cautionary tale for Britain, warning that poor governance could lead to similar declines if left unchecked.
“Why this matters so much to me is because I know what it is like to have something and lose it. I don’t want Britain to lose what it has,” she said.
Backlash from Nigerian Officials
Badenoch’s remarks have drawn criticism from Nigerian officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who accused her of disparaging her country of origin.
“If she does not wish to be associated with the greatest Black nation on earth, she should consider changing her name,” Shettima said, defending Nigeria’s legacy and potential.
Badenoch, born in the UK but raised primarily in Nigeria, has frequently spoken about the challenges of growing up in a country marked by corruption and insecurity.
She has previously criticised the Nigerian police, describing them as “armed robbers” for their alleged intimidation of citizens.
A Call for Conservatism
At the Onward event, Badenoch framed her critique of Nigeria as a broader argument for conservatism as a means of preserving Britain’s economic and social stability.
“I don’t want Britain to become a place where poor governance devastates lives. Real conservatism offers a better, richer, and safer future for the next generation,” she said.
Her remarks come amid growing frustrations in Britain over inflation, public sector strikes, and concerns about government spending.
Badenoch has positioned herself as a proponent of fiscal discipline and reform, drawing parallels between Nigeria’s challenges and the risks she believes Britain could face without strong leadership.
Divisive Impact
Badenoch’s comments have polarised opinion, with supporters praising her frankness and detractors accusing her of fuelling stereotypes about African governance.
Advocacy groups in the UK and Nigeria have urged her to use her platform to promote constructive dialogue rather than perpetuate negative narratives.
Natasha Rattu, an activist for African diaspora rights, said: “While it’s important to address governance challenges, such sweeping criticisms can alienate communities and overlook the resilience and progress happening in Nigeria.”
A Broader Debate
Badenoch’s remarks reflect the complex relationship many diaspora leaders have with their countries of origin, balancing pride in their heritage with candid assessments of its challenges.
As she continues to lead the UK’s ruling party, her critiques of Nigeria are likely to remain a focal point in debates about governance, leadership, and the influence of diaspora voices.
The fallout from her speech underscores the delicate balance between addressing legitimate concerns and fostering unity, both within the UK and in the global Nigerian community.
