- By Halimah Olamide
A United Kingdom based Nigerian journalist Juliana Olayinka has described as disappointing what she called name-calling of the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party Kemi Badenoch.
Her statement came amidst a comment by the chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission Abike Dabiri who said that Badenoch had snubbed Nigeria.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, Dabiri-Erewa stated that Nigeria would not compel the British politician to embrace her Nigerian roots if she chooses not to.
“It depends on whether she embraces her Nigerian identity. We reached out to her once or twice, but there was no response. We don’t force anyone to acknowledge being Nigerian,” Dabiri said on a Channels television interview
But Olayinka, in what appeared a response to Dabiri said, I’m still standing firmly behind Kemi Badenoch and I remain deeply inspired by her historic achievements. While I don’t have to agree with everything anyone says or does, I admire her conviction and dedication. As a patriot, I value my own perspective, but I also respect and do not deny anyone’s personal lived experience.
She said the Leader of the Conservative Party was in Nigeria saying she then met with the former Minister of Trade.
“Her family joined her on the trip, making it both a high-level engagement and a personal connection to Nigeria. This visit came on the heels of a productive meeting with the Federal Government in London just a few months prior.
“My very first dialogue in the House of Commons was hosted by Kemi, where we discussed critical issues, including the challenges between farmers and herders. It’s disheartening to see divisive labels, name-calling, and personal attacks overshadow the meaningful work she’s doing. These tactics are both concerning and disappointing.”
Dabiri’s comment has ignited reactions with some backing her while some have condemned her.