Former Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bolaji Akinyemi, criticized UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch for her negative portrayal of Nigeria. Akinyemi highlighted her privileged upbringing and accused her of exploiting her heritage for political gain. He urged Badenoch to rebuild her party’s image instead of denigrating her homeland.
Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, a former Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, has criticized Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK Conservative Party, for her portrayal of her upbringing in Nigeria. Akinyemi expressed his discontent during an appearance on Channels Television, questioning Badenoch’s claim about her humble beginnings in Lagos. He highlighted that her father, a professor at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and a medical doctor, and her education at the international school in UNILAG, did not align with the narrative she presented.
Akinyemi pointed out that Badenoch’s statements, which painted a picture of extreme poverty and hardship, were misleading and aimed at advancing her political career in the UK. He rebuked her for “denigrating Nigeria” in a bid to gain favor with the UK public and dismissed her claims as an exaggeration that undermined her heritage.
The comments come after Badenoch stirred controversy by labeling Nigeria as a “corrupt and insecure socialist nation” and emphasizing the poverty she allegedly faced growing up. Akinyemi advised her to focus on revitalizing the Conservative Party’s image instead of using Nigeria as a scapegoat for political leverage. He warned that her current approach would backfire and emphasized that she would learn the consequences of dismissing her roots.
