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Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

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1 year ago

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Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

By: Dr. James Bwala

The recent conversation between Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima and UK politician Kemi Badenoch highlights the complexity of national identification and the responsibilities associated with heritage. Shettima’s condemnation of Badenoch’s harsh remarks about Nigeria emphasizes an important facet of leadership: the necessity to cultivate pride in one’s origins, particularly among public personalities. His bold proposal that Badenoch “remove the Kemi from her name” if she is not proud of her Nigerian heritage exemplifies a larger debate over leaders’ accountability to their native country.

Contrasting Badenoch’s words with those of Rishi Sunak reinforces Shettima’s claim; Sunak has maintained a positive narrative about his Indian origin, demonstrating the critical role that leaders have in shaping perceptions. While Badenoch affirms her right to discuss personal experiences and criticisms about Nigeria, leaders must strike a balance between open speech and constructive patriotism. This occurrence prompts contemplation on how people in positions of power manage their dual identities while representing their country on global forums.

Shettima not only defends Nigeria’s image but also stimulates a broader discussion about leaders’ roles in creating a balanced narrative that recognizes both challenges and accomplishments within their cultural heritage. In this context, Shettima’s leadership goes beyond criticism; it represents a challenge to leaders to engage in dialogues that not only solve concerns but also celebrate the rich tapestry of their cultural landscapes.

Shettima’s approach emphasizes the necessity of leaders functioning as both critics and ambassadors, inspiring positive change and harmony in their communities. Shettima’s approach urges leaders to accept a dual role in which they may be forthright about difficulties while still serving as guardians of hope and progress for their countries. Shettima emphasizes the importance of leaders constructively addressing their legacy with a feeling of duty that extends beyond personal complaints.

In light of this, Shettima’s remark is a heartbreaking reminder of the power leaders wield in influencing perceptions and instilling national pride. Shettima’s nuanced approach calls for a contemplative and forward-thinking leadership style, one that recognizes the complexity of identity while working to bridge gaps and encourage inclusivity. Shettima’s leadership calls on other leaders to reconsider their roles as cultural guardians capable of influencing global perceptions and fostering a sense of collective identity.

Shettima’s challenge to Badenoch’s narrative not only preserves Nigeria’s integrity but also establishes a precedent for leaders to engage in productive debates that foster understanding and mutual respect. Shettima’s gentle correction of Badenoch highlights the significance of respectful discussion and a shared commitment to truth in creating an environment in which traditional narratives are not only preserved but also embraced. In doing so, Shettima shows the role of a leader who views constructive criticism as a tool for empowerment rather than alienation, arguing for narratives that are both introspective and globally relevant.

Shettima navigates this difficult subject by emphasizing the importance of a balanced depiction of one’s background as well as acknowledging the different experiences that define individual identities. Shettima displays a leadership style that promotes constructive engagement over divisive language by creating an environment conducive to dialogue among various viewpoints.

In response to Badenoch’s statements, Shettima underlined the significance of respecting and enjoying one’s ancestry while engaging in constructive criticism. Shettima underscores the idea that constructive criticism should try to enhance rather than denigrate by drawing parallels with leaders such as Rishi Sunak, who appreciate their past without dismissing it. By contrasting Badenoch’s complaints with Rishi Sunak’s pleasure in his Indian background, Shettima effectively advocates for a balanced discourse that recognizes the complexity of one’s cultural story while calling for development and reform.

While this has created significant disagreement among Nigerians, many support Shettima’s approach. This support is due to a sense of national pride and a desire for constructive criticism rather than disparagement. Shettima’s claim that Badenoch’s words denigrate her Nigerian ancestry resonates with residents who believe that criticism should be based on love and a desire to improve, rather than contempt.

The divergent responses of Shettima and Badenoch illustrate opposing views on national identity. While Badenoch stresses corruption and insecurity in Nigeria, which are unquestionably important issues, many Nigerians believe her approach lacks nuance and fails to recognize the country’s potential. Supporters think that displaying achievements with criticisms promotes a more fair discussion about Nigeria’s future.

Nigerians’ support for Shettima demonstrates a shared desire for unity and pride in their country. Instead of perpetuating negative preconceptions, they argue for an approach that stimulates debate and seeks solutions. In this setting, supporting Shettima is interpreted as opposing external narratives that do not truly reflect Nigeria’s intricacies. Nigerians who support Shettima are not only defending their country’s image but also arguing for a more dignified narrative that embraces Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy and growth.

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This collective mood reflects a deeper desire by Nigerians to recover their narrative and exercise control over how their country is seen on a global scale. This shift to a more positive and self-determined narrative is critical for instilling national pride and encouraging residents to actively participate in the country’s progress. This change towards empowerment and self-representation is critical to redefining Nigeria’s position in the international arena.

I believe that this movement is about instilling in Nigerians a sense of ownership and responsibility to address their own difficulties while enjoying their triumphs, rather than simply responding to external criticism. Simultaneously, this support for Shettima’s position demonstrates a rising awareness among Nigerians of the importance of constructively engaging with their country’s difficulties rather than letting external criticism define their identity. This expanding consciousness is evident in public discourse, which is increasingly emphasizing constructive criticism and collaborative attempts to address national concerns.

Indeed, Kemi Badenoch’s recent utterances on Nigeria have raised serious worries about her potential disloyalty to Britain. Badenoch’s criticism of Nigeria, notably her categorization of northern sections as terrorist havens, appears to emphasize political expediency over a thorough understanding of her country. Such disparaging remarks not only alienate a sizable segment of the Nigerian diaspora but also indicate a readiness to abuse her background for personal advantage. This action could imply that if she can easily betray her native nation, she may also discard British ideals when politically expedient.

I am afraid that this pattern of denunciation may reflect a wish to disassociate herself from Nigeria’s poor image and appeal to British voters. However, this raises concerns about her honesty and loyalty. The “double agent dilemma” suggests that voters may interpret her comments as evidence of underlying disloyalty. Ultimately, Badenoch’s rhetoric may indicate that she is more concerned with political ambition than with defending the principles connected with any nation.

Her stance, marked by the strategic denunciation of her roots, could be interpreted as a tactical strategy to strengthen her position in British politics at the expense of true commitment. Such actions may give British residents the impression that her commitment is more motivated by personal ambition than by national loyalty. This view may weaken trust among constituents, who expect constant commitment to their country’s interests.

This loss of trust could have serious consequences for her political future, as people may look for leaders whose commitment is seen as absolute and steadfast. This sense of opportunism may cause voters to wonder whether her commitment is actually to the country she serves or whether it is only for her personal progress in the political scene. This doubt about her motives may lead people to gravitate toward candidates whose commitment to national interests is unquestionable. 

* Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Of Nigeria and Britain: Between Vice President Shettima and Kemi Badenoch

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Yobe APC guber candidate calls for unity, urges Tumsa and others to withdraw

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12 hours ago

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May 18, 2026

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Yobe APC guber candidate calls for unity, urges Tumsa and others to withdraw

By: Yahaya Wakili

The All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate for Yobe state, Alhaji Baba Mallam Wali Fcan, mni, has called on the three remaining aspirants, Barr. Kashim Musa Tumsah, Engr. Mai Hajja, and Hon. Bashir Shariff Machina, to withdraw and come to unite and work as one family to move Yobe state forward.

Baba Mallam Wali made the call yesterday in Nguru town while thousands of APC supporters turned out en masse to welcome him since he became the gubernatorial candidate of the party. He said, “I am a native of Nguru, and since the restoration of democracy in 1999, this zone has never gotten such an opportunity, not even the deputy governor.”

He maintained that, before there were G-6, three had already withdrawn, and the first aspirant to step down was the former Senate President, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan GCON; secondly, Lawan Kolo; thirdly, the former inspector general of police, Usman Baba Alkali; and today, we thank God, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai stepped down, respectively.

Therefore, the 3 remaining aspirants, Kashim Tumsah, Engr. Mai Hajja, and Bashir Shariff Machina, I call on them; let them step down, come, and unite ourselves to work together to move Yobe State forward, adding that Yobe remains one indivisible political family under the APC.

The gubernatorial candidate hailed Senator Musa Mustapha, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan GCON, Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai, Lawan Kolo, and former IGP Usman Baba Alkali for their maturity, patriotism, and commitment to party unity following their withdrawal from the 2027 governorship race.

“His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, is a strong politician; his political career has been marked by vast experience, national influence, and remarkable achievements. He is a national chairman and national secretary of our great party, APC, and up to now, he is a great and strong politician. I worked with him as the secretary to the government for 7 years; therefore, I learned so many things from him.

According to Wali, His Excellency Senator Ibrahim Geidam, FCAE, Minister of Police Affairs and the leader of Yobe State politics, exhibited a rare blend of leadership and pragmatic governance and is a masterclass in dedicated politics and public service. Therefore, I worked with these leaders, and I learned so many things from them.

Yobe APC guber candidate calls for unity, urges Tumsa and others to withdraw

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Consensus Imposition of Mining Magnate Seriki As Governorship Candidate By The Governor Threatens Gradual Implosion in Kwara APC

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1 day ago

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May 17, 2026

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Consensus Imposition of Mining Magnate Seriki As Governorship Candidate By The Governor Threatens Gradual Implosion in Kwara APC

By: Bodunrin Kayode

The culture of consensus which has enveloped the All Progressive Congress (APC) party in kwara is threatening the very unity among party stalwarts even as some aspirants have vowed to oppose any imposition of candidates by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.

Trouble actually started when Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, initiated underground moves to anoint the controversial mining magnate, Abdulfatah Seriki-Gambari, popularly known as “Yahaya Seriki”, as his preferred candidate to replace him ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Political watchers in the state have hinted that the move is already generating anger and tension with influential stakeholders and other aspirants engrossed in fierce internal battles over the control of the party and what they described as the faulty succession moves by the governor despite having an array of more experienced aspirants equally eager to throw in their hats into the ring for the coveted office.

However, this latest development comes despite previous controversies surrounding Seriki’s mining activities in Kwara State, including calls by members of the Kwara State House of Assembly last year seeking the revocation of some of his mining licences over alleged irregularities and concerns raised by local communities.

Multiple high-ranking APC sources hinted that the Governor had already concluded arrangements to impose Seriki as the party’s consensus governorship candidate following a series of strategic meetings held in Abuja last weekend.

A notice for an emergency meeting circulated to Governorship aspirants last week signed by the Kwara APC Publicity Secretary, Abdulwaheed Babatunde, fixed the meeting for 12 noon last Thursday at the Kwara State Banquet Hall in Ilorin.

With this development, sources close to the government house say that some of the aspirants expected to step down include: Yakubu Danladi; Engr. Olufemi Sanni; Maliaha Ahman-Pategi; Muhammed Belgore and Ahmad Mahmud.

Another source hinted though sadly that many of the aspirants now expected to withdraw from the race were originally encouraged by Governor Abdulrazaq himself to join the contest to create a level of legitimacy for Seriki’s emergence.

It is believed that some stalwarts in the party had earlier accused some forces of narrowing the search for the APC governorship ticket to aspirants from Kwara Central Senatorial District to please certain people who believe it’s there right to stay in power for over 20 years without making way for the other senatorial zones.

They also believe that a large chunk of northern and southern kwara have been taken over by banditry and chaos as such they may not be able to contest against what they described as the central district’s perceived electoral advantage over the rest of the state.

Over 20 traditional rulers and subjects have moved out of their domains to safe havens in the south and Northern zones of kwara making their political strength weakened to a dangerous level of submission to the will of the Governor.

Consensus Imposition of Mining Magnate Seriki As Governorship Candidate By The Governor Threatens Gradual Implosion in Kwara APC

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Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno

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2 days ago

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May 17, 2026

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Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno

By: Michael Mike

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the All Progressives Congress primary election for the House of Representatives across the state.

Zulum gave the commendation on Saturday shortly after supervising the APC primary election for the Gubio, Kaga and Magumeri Federal Constituency held in Magumeri town.

Hundreds of party supporters from the three local government areas gathered at the venue to welcome the governor and APC officials overseeing the exercise.

Speaking with journalists after the primary, Zulum said the process was conducted in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the constitution of the APC, which allows aspirants to adopt consensus arrangements.

“We are here to witness the primary election in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution, which allows for consensus arrangements among aspirants,” the governor stated.

He explained that although three aspirants initially indicated interest in contesting for the party’s House of Representatives ticket, two later withdrew in support of the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Usman Zannah.

“We have three contestants vying for the position of the House of Representatives, but fortunately, under the consensus arrangement as enshrined in the constitution of our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), two of the aspirants stepped down for the incumbent member, Hon. Usman Zannah,” he said.

According to the governor, party members and stakeholders from the constituency affirmed their support for the consensus candidate during the exercise.

Zulum congratulated Hon. Zannah on his emergence and praised the aspirants who stepped down — Hon. Shettima Shehu and Alhaji Mohammed Sanda Ngamdu — describing their action as a demonstration of unity, sacrifice and political maturity.

“I want to extend my congratulations to the candidate and the others who stepped down for him,” he said. “I also want to express my appreciation to all APC supporters and the people of Borno State for ensuring a peaceful voting process.”

The governor stressed that the consensus arrangement adopted by the party was voluntary and not designed to deny any aspirant the opportunity to contest.

“Under the consensus arrangement, the government of Borno State and the party have never taken a decision to stop anybody from contesting,” he explained. “Consensus is a voluntary option, and anybody who does not wish to go for a consensus election has the right to participate in a direct primary.”

Chairman of the APC Primary Elections Committee for Gubio, Kaga and Magumeri Federal Constituency, Hon. Yuguda Saleh Vungas, also confirmed that party stakeholders agreed on consensus as the mode of primary election.

He commended Governor Zulum for creating an enabling environment for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the exercise.

Through a voice vote, APC members from the three local government areas unanimously affirmed Hon. Usman Zannah as the party’s consensus candidate for the House of Representatives seat.

Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission and APC national headquarters monitored the exercise.

Governor Zulum was accompanied by the APC consensus gubernatorial candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijani, and Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe.

Zulum Lauds Peaceful Conduct of APC House of Reps Primaries in Borno

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