The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has criticized UK Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, for her recent comments likening governance issues in Nigeria to potential risks facing the United Kingdom. Badenoch made the comments during her first speech of the year at an event organized by Onward, a British think tank, where she warned of the risks of ineffective governance in the UK.
According to Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, Badenoch’s remarks were an attempt to denigrate Nigeria for political gain in the UK. Bwala noted that former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who is of Indian origin, never used his heritage to promote his political agenda, unlike Badenoch.
Bwala dismissed the relevance of Badenoch’s remarks to Nigeria’s international relations or its efforts to attract investors. He argued that her statements would not affect Nigeria, as she is not the head of government in the UK. Bwala also acknowledged Badenoch’s achievements in the UK but stated that she is capitalizing on populism that thrives on public discontent.
The criticism comes as Badenoch seeks to position the Conservative Party as the solution to Britain’s challenges. However, Bwala’s response highlights the Nigerian government’s displeasure with Badenoch’s comments, which they perceive as denigrating Nigeria.
