By Julius Ogunro
The outrage over Kemi Badenoch’s comments on Nigeria is both predictable and perplexing. We, as Nigerians, agree that our nation is struggling—if not outright failing—but the moment someone from outside points this out, we lash out defensively. Why the contradiction?
The 2023 elections were a vivid reminder of how fractured our society remains. Ethnic profiling and outright violence against certain groups unfolded before our very eyes. People were told they didn’t belong, attacked for daring to vote, and ordered to “go home.” If those children, who witnessed their parents humiliated for their ethnicity, someday leave Nigeria and share their painful memories, we would brand them as “unpatriotic.” But are their experiences not real?
The truth is, we have yet to build a cohesive national identity. Ethnic loyalty often outweighs allegiance to Nigeria. Sir Ahmadu Bello famously described Nigeria as a “mere geographical expression.” Decades later, his observation rings painfully true. Even leaders elected on a national platform retreat into their ethnic enclaves when it comes to appointments and political survival. The Nigerian identity is fragile; we know this, but prefer to ignore it.
Kemi Badenoch’s views reflect her experiences, and sadly, they are backed by evidence. Our reality is one of institutional decay, rampant corruption, and the unchecked power of elites. Nigeria is a place where a “big man” can weaponize the police to arrest and imprison an ordinary citizen over a personal grudge. She doesn’t want her beloved Britain to descend into such dysfunction. Can you blame her? If Nigeria were thriving, why would our people be fleeing en masse to the very countries we now accuse of looking down on us?
As for her self-identification as Yoruba rather than Nigerian, that too is her right. Ethnic identity endures in ways national affiliations do not. American presidents like Joe Biden and Bill Clinton proudly identify as Irish and maintain deep connections to their ancestral roots. This doesn’t make them less American. Similarly, Yorubas and Ijaws exist outside Nigeria—as Britons, French, or otherwise. Ethnic ties are indelible, but national identity is more fluid.
If we disagree with Kemi Badenoch’s remarks, the best way to prove her wrong is not through empty patriotism but by action. Let’s build institutions, foster unity, and create a country worth being proud of. Mere words won’t do.
Finally, let’s address a common hypocrisy: when a group holds power in Nigeria, they are quick to wave the flag of patriotism. But observe their behavior out of power, and you’ll see where their true loyalties lie.
Let Kemi’s words serve as a wake-up call, not an insult.
#KemiBadenoch #Nigeria #Opinion
