Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has berated UK Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, over her recent comments on Nigeria’s citizenship laws.

Naijaonpoint reports that Badenoch, who spoke on CNN’s Fareed Zakaria GPS on Sunday, claimed that as a woman, she is unable to transfer her Nigerian citizenship to her children, a claim that has sparked controversy and strong reactions online.

Speaking on immigration issues and national identity, Badenoch lamented that Nigeria’s laws make it “virtually impossible” for foreigners to acquire citizenship.

She also cited gender-based restrictions, alleging that her children could not inherit Nigerian citizenship because she is a woman.

“It’s virtually impossible, for example, to get Nigerian citizenship. I have that citizenship by virtue of my parents. I can’t give it to my children because I’m a woman,” she said.

“Yet loads of Nigerians come to the UK and stay for a relatively free period of time, acquire British citizenship. We need to stop being naive.”

Naijaonpoint reports that Badenoch’s comments were part of a broader argument defending tougher immigration rules in the UK, which has become a hot-button issue within the ruling Conservative Party.

Why Do You Need Nigerian Citizenship For Your Children? Sani Asks Badenoch

In a swift response on Monday, Senator Shehu Sani took to his official 𝕏 handle to criticise Badenoch’s position.

He questioned why she was concerned about acquiring Nigerian citizenship for her children after distancing herself from the country.

“Why should Kemi Badenoch be bothered about getting a Nigerian citizenship for her offspring from a country she rebuked and rejected?” the former lawmaker asked.

“She should just enjoy her adopted home and leave us alone in our father’s home.”