A prominent Yoruba diaspora organization, Yoruba One Voice (YOV), has urged the Nigerian Federal Government to focus on addressing pressing national issues rather than targeting Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the British Conservative Party.
The group, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Prince Adedokun Ademiluyi, expressed disappointment over the backlash Badenoch has faced following her comments about Nigeria.
Badenoch recently made headlines after stating her lack of belief in Nigeria as a functioning entity.
According to YOV, her remarks reflected the frustrations of many Nigerians abroad who continue to grapple with the realities of corruption, insecurity, and economic instability in their home country.
“Kemi Badenoch is entitled to her opinion and belief. Her statement was made in good faith and represented the views of countless Nigerians in the diaspora who feel disillusioned about the state of the nation.
“Instead of attacking her, the Federal Government should address the underlying issues that have tarnished Nigeria’s global image,” Ademiluyi said.
Ademiluyi emphasized that Badenoch’s achievements as a Yoruba woman in the UK should be celebrated, not criticized.
He pointed out that many Nigerians abroad share similar sentiments but lack the platform to voice their concerns publicly.
“The growing insecurity, injustice, and corruption in Nigeria make it difficult for many Nigerians in the diaspora to proudly identify with the country.
“Kemi Badenoch’s words should serve as a wake-up call for the government to take meaningful action to restore faith in the nation,” he stated.
Ademiluyi referenced the increasing trend of Nigerians renouncing their citizenship for foreign passports, popularly known as the “Japa syndrome.”
He lamented the mass exodus of skilled professionals, including over 100,000 doctors and nurses, and Nigeria’s strained diplomatic relations with countries like the United Arab Emirates and South Africa.
“It is disheartening that countries we once supported, such as the UAE and South Africa, now restrict Nigerians from entering their borders.
“These situations arise from the poor governance and economic downturn back home. Instead of attacking a prominent figure like Badenoch, efforts should be directed toward rebuilding Nigeria’s global reputation,” Ademiluyi said.
He further noted that it is not in Yoruba culture to abandon their own during difficult times, especially those who have made significant contributions to global society.
“Kemi Badenoch is a global icon who has made Nigeria and the Yoruba people proud. She contested for the position of British Prime Minister, which is a monumental achievement. Attacking her only draws negative attention to Nigeria,” he added.
YOV called on the Federal Government to focus on addressing Nigeria’s systemic challenges, such as insecurity, corruption, and poor economic conditions, rather than vilifying individuals expressing their honest opinions.
The group emphasized that by fixing the nation, Nigeria could regain the trust and pride of its citizens, both at home and abroad.
“The world is watching. The more Nigerians attack Kemi Badenoch, the more the global community scrutinizes Nigeria’s governance failures. It’s time to stop the blame game and start fixing the issues that matter,” Ademiluyi concluded.