Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, has defended her critical remarks about Nigeria following backlash from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who accused her of denigrating the country
Badenoch, who was born in the UK but grew up in Nigeria, has often described her upbringing as marred by fear, insecurity, and corruption. In earlier comments, she stated, “I grew up in Nigeria, and I saw firsthand what happens when politicians are in it for themselves… 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.”
In response, Shettima criticized Badenoch on Monday, urging her to stop disparaging Nigeria and suggesting she change her first name if she no longer identified with her roots. He also contrasted her remarks with those of former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, praising Sunak for refraining from negative comments about his ancestral India.
When asked about the Vice President’s remarks, Badenoch’s spokesperson stated that she stands by her comments and is not interested in “doing PR for Nigeria.”
“She tells the truth as she sees it. She’s proud of her leadership and stands by her statements,” the spokesperson said.