The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has criticized Vice President Kashim Shettima for his remarks against Kemi Badenoch, the UK Conservative Party leader of Nigerian descent, over her criticisms of Nigeria. The group described Shettima’s response as a diversion from the real issues affecting the country and called on him to focus on fixing Nigeria’s systemic failures instead of engaging in verbal attacks.
Badenoch, who spent part of her childhood in Lagos, recently made comments highlighting Nigeria’s insecurity, corruption, and poor governance. Speaking about her experiences, she described Nigeria as a place where “everything seemed broken” and recounted personal instances of police extortion, including an incident where officers allegedly robbed her brother. Her remarks have drawn criticism, with Shettima suggesting that Badenoch should drop “Kemi” from her name if she felt ashamed of her Nigerian heritage.
In a sharp rebuke, HURIWA defended Badenoch’s right to express her views, stating that her observations are based on undeniable realities in Nigeria. The group questioned which of her claims were untrue, pointing to recent examples of police misconduct to validate her criticisms. These include reports of officers extorting money from citizens, including ₦1 million from a man in Enugu, ₦360,000 from a petty trader in Lagos, and ₦43.16 million stolen by officers in Abuja from recovered funds.
HURIWA emphasized that these incidents reflect a broader issue of systemic corruption and impunity within the Nigeria Police Force. Despite public outcry, including the 2020 #EndSARS protests, extortion, unlawful detentions, and harassment persist. The organization argued that these issues, coupled with widespread insecurity, justify Badenoch’s criticisms.
The group noted that Nigeria’s global reputation has been marred by its poor rankings in security and governance. Citizens face constant threats of kidnappings and violent attacks, with even politicians and elites avoiding travel without heavy security escorts. HURIWA blamed these challenges on a flawed political recruitment process that has allowed corrupt individuals to dominate governance, leading to poor service delivery and a lack of accountability.
Instead of addressing these pressing concerns, HURIWA argued, Shettima has chosen to engage in what it described as an unnecessary media war with Badenoch. The group condemned this approach as a waste of public resources and a distraction from the real work of governance. It called on Nigerian leaders, including Shettima, to focus on resolving the country’s economic and social crises rather than silencing critics.
While backing Badenoch’s right to free speech, HURIWA advised her to exercise balance and maturity in her criticisms. The group acknowledged that her statements are valid but urged her to avoid language that could appear uncharitable. Badenoch, despite her dual citizenship, remains of Nigerian descent and should demonstrate decorum in her remarks about the country.
HURIWA also suggested that Badenoch concentrate on her responsibilities as leader of the UK Conservative Party, which is currently facing internal challenges. The group argued that prolonged discussions about Nigeria might distract her from addressing pressing issues within her party. At the same time, HURIWA called on Nigerian leaders to refrain from further public exchanges with Badenoch, emphasizing the need to channel their energies into governance and institutional reforms.
The organization reiterated its call for comprehensive reforms to address Nigeria’s systemic issues, starting with police accountability. It urged the government to implement measures to eliminate extortion and brutality, improve public safety, and restore trust in security agencies. Additionally, HURIWA stressed the need for an overhaul of the political system to ensure that only competent and ethical leaders are elected.
HURIWA concluded by calling on Shettima and other leaders to accept constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for improvement. The group insisted that the focus should be on addressing the root causes of Nigeria’s problems rather than attacking those who highlight them.
READ ALSO: HURIWA Hails Appeal Court for Nullifying Rivers Allocation Seizure
“Kemi Badenoch’s comments should be a wake-up call for Nigeria’s leaders. Instead of engaging in unnecessary distractions, our government must confront the systemic failures she has highlighted and work toward creating a better country for all Nigerians,” HURIWA said.
