‘Attacks on Kemi Badenoch not good for Nigeria’s image’

A prominent Yoruba diaspora organisation, operating under the aegis of Yoruba One Voice (YOV), has cautioned those attacking the leader of the British Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, urging them to desist from actions that could tarnish Nigeria’s image.

YOV issued this warning on Monday in a statement by its General Secretary, Prince Adedokun Ademiluyi, expressing disapproval of the widespread attacks on Badenoch. Ademiluyi described her as a distinguished figure who has made Nigeria proud as a Yoruba woman.

Ademiluyi, while voicing his concerns, stated that Badenoch’s controversial remarks, which have drawn criticism, were made in good faith and reflect the views of some Nigerians abroad who lack a platform to express their frustrations about the injustice, corruption, and insecurity in the country.

“Kemi Badenoch is entitled to her opinions and beliefs. She identifies with her roots as a Yoruba woman. Her statement was based on her convictions and principles, reflecting the current state of affairs in Nigeria.

“Rather than attacking her, the Nigerian government should focus on improving the country’s image to make Nigerians abroad proud. Her remarks were a reflection of the sentiments held by many in the diaspora,” Ademiluyi said.

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He expressed concern over the various attacks on Badenoch, highlighting her significant impact in the UK.

“A woman of Kemi Badenoch’s caliber might hesitate to associate herself with Nigeria due to the prevailing issues of injustice, insecurity, and corruption. It is now up to Nigeria to win back the trust of its sons and daughters abroad by taking corrective action.

“Many others likely share Badenoch’s views but lack the platform or influence to speak out. Instead of rejecting her criticisms outright, we should engage with her perspective and learn from it.

“The critical question remains: why are so many Nigerians abandoning their Nigerian passports for British, American, or European ones? This trend stems not only from economic hardships but also from the country’s poor global image.

“The ‘Japa’ syndrome—a wave of mass emigration—is not limited to ordinary citizens. Over 100,000 doctors and nurses have left Nigeria. Our best brains are fleeing the country, seeking residency abroad, leaving behind a worsening situation,” he added.

Ademiluyi further criticized the federal government’s failure to address diplomatic challenges, citing examples such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country Nigeria once supported financially in the 1970s, now restricting Nigerian visitors.

“For the past two years, the Federal Government has been unable to resolve visa-related issues with the UAE,” he said. “Similarly, South Africa, which Nigeria supported during the apartheid struggle, has also imposed restrictions on Nigerians. Even smaller African countries, with fewer resources than Nigeria, are deporting Nigerians.

“We cannot allow anyone or any group to tarnish her reputation. Attacking Badenoch only draws more attention from the global community, and this could harm Nigeria’s image further.

“It is not in Yoruba culture to abandon our sons and daughters in difficult times. Kemi Badenoch is a global figure who once vied for the position of British Prime Minister, even though she didn’t win. As one of our most accomplished figures in the UK, we will not stand by and allow her image to be unfairly tarnished,” Ademiluyi concluded.