Online Row Sparks Debate Over Kemi Badenoch’s Comments on Nigeria

A heated online exchange has stirred debate in Nigeria following remarks made by Vice President Kashim Shettima and a subsequent response from an aide to Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade. The dispute centers on Shettima’s criticism of Badenoch’s perceived denigration of Nigeria and her identity as a Nigerian-born politician.

In a public statement, Vice President Shettima accused Badenoch of disregarding her Nigerian heritage, following comments attributed to her about not wanting to serve as Nigeria’s public relations (PR) representative. Shettima suggested that Badenoch, whose parents are Nigerian, should renounce her Nigerian identity if she continues to speak unfavorably about the country.

An aide to Badenoch responded by clarifying her position, stating that she has no interest in doing PR for Nigeria and that her focus remains on her responsibilities as a UK government official. The aide also dismissed Shettima’s remarks as unnecessary and unproductive.

The incident has ignited conversations on social media and other platforms, with Nigerians expressing mixed reactions. Some criticized Badenoch for her perceived detachment from her Nigerian roots, while others defended her right to prioritize her role in the UK without additional expectations tied to her heritage.

The controversy underscores the sensitivity of issues related to national identity and the expectations placed on diaspora figures of Nigerian origin. As the debate unfolds, it highlights the broader challenges of balancing personal identity and professional obligations in a global context.