Former Nigerian External Affairs Minister Prof Bolaji Akinyemi delivered a sharp rebuke Monday to British Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, warning that her repeated criticism of Nigeria would eventually backfire on her political career. The veteran diplomat condemned Badenoch’s apparent strategy of distancing herself from her Nigerian heritage to advance her political ambitions in the UK.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Akinyemi particularly criticized Badenoch’s portrayal of her Nigerian upbringing, pointing out the contrast between her privileged background and her current narrative. How the daughter of a professor of UNILAG, her father who was a medical doctor, a girl who went to the international school at UNILAG would make it sound like she was selling groundnut and selling water in Lagos to advance her political career,” Akinyemi remarked.
The former Nigerian Institute of International Affairs director-general suggested that Badenoch’s strategy would prove counterproductive, stating emphatically that “you don’t throw your people and your culture under the bus to advance your career.” He advised the Conservative leader to focus on her party’s domestic challenges in Britain rather than engaging in criticism of Nigeria.
Akinyemi’s comments come amid growing tension between Nigerian officials and Badenoch following her election as Conservative Party leader in November 2024. The situation has been further complicated by revelations from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission chairperson, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who reported that attempts to reach out to Badenoch have been met with silence.
The controversy has deeper roots, stretching back to 2022 when Badenoch, then a UK Prime Minister hopeful, made controversial statements accusing Nigerian politicians of misusing public funds for personal benefit. These comments have continued to strain diplomatic relations between Britain and Nigeria, with various Nigerian officials expressing disappointment in Badenoch’s apparent rejection of her heritage.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s December 2024 response to Badenoch’s criticisms highlighted the growing frustration among Nigerian leadership, suggesting she could remove “Kemi” from her name if she wished to distance herself from her Nigerian identity. Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala has also weighed in, characterizing Badenoch’s comments as calculated moves to gain acceptance within her party.
Akinyemi’s analysis went beyond personal criticism, pointing to broader political dynamics in British politics. He noted the emergence of right-wing parties even more conservative than the traditional Tory establishment, suggesting that Badenoch would be better served focusing on these domestic political challenges rather than engaging in international controversies.
The situation reflects complex dynamics of identity politics and international relations, particularly for political figures with multinational backgrounds. Badenoch’s case has become a notable example of the challenges faced by politicians of immigrant descent in navigating their heritage while building political careers in adopted countries.
The ongoing controversy has implications beyond personal politics, potentially affecting bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and Nigeria at a time when both nations are dealing with significant domestic and international challenges. As Britain’s Conservative Party seeks to maintain its political relevance and Nigeria continues its role as Africa’s largest economy, the tension between Badenoch and Nigerian officials adds an unexpected dimension to British-Nigerian relations.
Akinyemi’s warning that Badenoch “would soon learn her lessons” suggests potential diplomatic and political consequences for the Conservative leader’s approach to her Nigerian heritage. As this situation continues to evolve, it may serve as a case study in the complexities of international politics and personal identity in an increasingly interconnected world.