By: Bayero Ade
Nigerian activist Aisha Yesufu has criticized Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, for her recent controversial comments about colonialism and reparations. Badenoch dismissed the idea of reparations for colonialism as a “scam,” a statement that has sparked significant outrage.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Yesufu, co-founder of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) advocacy group, challenged Badenoch’s position, accusing her of ignoring the painful legacy of colonialism in countries like Nigeria. Yesufu argued that the United Kingdom’s wealth was built on the exploitation and suffering of colonized nations, calling Badenoch’s comments out of touch and dismissive.
“United Kingdom grew on the back of people’s pain and anguish. Looted kingdoms, destroyed systems, and killed people, and Kemi says their wealth isn’t from people’s pain,” Yesufu wrote.
Yesufu also took aim at Badenoch for continuing to hold onto personal grievances over an incident in which a Nigerian police officer allegedly stole her brother’s shoes, while encouraging others to “move on” from historical wrongs. “Kemi Badenoch… is still hung up that a policeman stole her brother’s shoes!” Yesufu said.
In her post, Yesufu further stated that Badenoch is not truly connected to Nigeria, despite her Nigerian heritage. “She is not Nigerian, and we get it!” she concluded.
Badenoch’s remarks have reignited the ongoing debate over colonialism, reparations, and the role of political leaders of African descent in addressing historical injustices. While some critics accuse her of supporting Western narratives, others see her position as a more pragmatic approach to contemporary global challenges.
Badenoch, a rising figure in UK politics, has previously faced backlash over her views on race, colonial history, and her ties to Nigeria. While some praise her as a symbol of diversity, others question her commitment to addressing the lasting effects of colonialism.
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