A social media storm in Nigeria has erupted following remarks by Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima, who criticized Kemi Badenoch, the Nigeria-raised leader of Britain’s Conservative Party, for her controversial comments about Nigeria.
Badenoch, who became the head of the British Conservative Party in November, has gained a reputation for her right-wing policies and outspoken critique of “woke” culture.
Born in London to Nigerian parents but raised in Lagos, Badenoch has often criticized Nigeria for corruption and insecurity, while making divisive remarks about immigration, such as her assertion that “not all cultures are equally valid.”
During a migration summit in Abuja on Monday, Shettima voiced disapproval of Badenoch’s rhetoric, stating:
“She’s entitled to her own opinions, she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name. But that does not underscore the fact that the greatest Black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria.”
Divided Reactions on Social Media
Shettima’s remarks triggered polarized reactions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Critics of the Vice President accused him of deflecting from Nigeria’s internal issues.
“Kashim Shettima, instead of dragging Kemi Badenoch, fix Nigeria!” wrote user Ifeanyi Onuoha. Another user, Nnaemeka Edeh, added, “Nigeria became the greatest Black corrupt nation on earth not any fault of Kemi.”
Others rallied behind Shettima, applauding his defense of Nigerian pride. “
This is my Vice President!!! The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria! I and my descendants will always be proud to be Nigerians no matter where we go!” exclaimed user IbibioPrince.
Badenoch’s past statements about Nigeria continue to fuel debate. She has described her upbringing in Lagos as a stark contrast to the opportunities she found in Britain, stating:
“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.”
Criticism of Badenoch’s Stance
Badenoch’s critical stance on Nigeria has not gone unnoticed.
“She should stop being stupid by denigrating Nigeria all the time just to please her slave masters,” wrote Omo Oduduwa on X.
In response to the controversy, a spokesman for Badenoch stated:
“Kemi is not trying to promote Nigeria, she is the leader of the opposition in the UK.”
The debate has highlighted deep divides within Nigerian society about national pride, leadership, and the global diaspora’s representation of the country.
