The water is poisoned! The whole of the water system is tainted and absolutely unusable for its purpose,” Thomas Stockmann, medical doctor, accomplished scientist, informs the people around him. He is employed to look after the health of the people and the public baths, the mainstay of his town’s economy. It is in the course of that job that he makes a scientific discovery that the baths are dangerously polluted, and that they spread typhoid. And he says so.

Dr. Thomas Stockmann is the protagonist in Henrik Ibsen’s 1882 play, ‘An Enemy of the People’. We were taught long ago that literature is a reflection of life. We were also taught that literature is the lamp that lights the way of life, past to present – and back to the past. We were taught that drama as a mirror shows us what life truly is. Life itself is a drama, a stage on which we all fret and strut until the light goes out on us. Ibsen’s Thomas Stockmann, public enemy number one, is used here in my celebration of the near end of a particularly dramatic year, our love for false gods and our stoning of the wrong Satan.

I have skimmed through Gabriel Fallon’s ‘Prophecy in the Theatre’ (1956), his quote on drama as a member of the human life – human thought and morality. I have scanned J.C. Kamerbeek’s ‘Prophecy and Tragedy’ (1965), his discussions on dramatic structure and tragic meaning. There is a sense in which the dramatic can be prophetic.

Back to ‘An Enemy of the People’. The drama is in the plot. The setting is a coastal town in southern Norway. Authorities of the town get a hint of Dr Stockmann’s findings on their polluted water. Alarmed and agitated, they meet with him for negotiations. They ask their medical doctor to keep quiet, to shut up. The public must not hear what he is saying. It will create a panic in the town. It will hurt the town and its economy; tourists will stop coming, investors will lose money.

But this doctor is a loud-mouthed stubborn dude. He insists on speaking ‘the truth’. He thinks he has a moral obligation to protect the community from avoidable diseases, from even death.

On more than one occasion, Doctor tells the people that previous unexplained deaths are due to the poisoned water: “Last year, there were people who died from a disease that spread through the town, and I am certain that the cause of it was the poisoned water. I told you then, and I tell you now—this water will kill us all.” His decision to talk, he is certain, is the right course of action. “It is my duty to lay bare the facts in the matter. Every conscientious man must support me in this!”

But the system supports only the “moderate.” Dr Stockmann’s own brother, Peter Stockmann, is the mayor of the town. And it is this brother that openly leads the opposition against this doctor, against his discovery of the pollution and against his audacity to tell.

When the state is on your case, it doesn’t rain; it pours. The press soon shuts out our doctor. His editor friends renege on their promise to publish his findings. They claim they can’t offend their funders. The stubborn medical doctor turns to himself. He resolves to speak directly to the people “in a way that they shall understand” and “drive all the wolves out of the country.” There is a town hall meeting where Stockmann proposes to officially announce his findings: “I am telling you the truth! The entire water system is tainted. People are going to die from this. We must close the baths and have them disinfected. We must stop this typhoid epidemic before it spreads further.”

His brother, the Mayor, hijacks the town hall meeting from him. The Mayor addresses the people. He tells them that his brother’s proposal is injurious to everyone in the town. The repairs he proposes will cost ratepayers “an unnecessary expenditure of some thousand pounds.” From the crowd comes a voice suggesting that the doctor be officially declared a public enemy.

Dr Stockmann watches as the townspeople he is fighting for respond with shouts:

“Yes! Yes! He’s an enemy of the people!”

“He hates his country! He hates his own people!”

“We can’t have someone like him in our town!”

Then a motion follows from someone our medical doctor trusts as his key supporter:

“Dr. Stockmann has shown himself to be an enemy of the people. Therefore, I propose that this gathering officially declares him an enemy of the people.” The vote is by ballot; everyone votes. Dr Stockmann gets one vote – the lone vote comes from a drunk attendee, the village drunkard.

Our man is defeated, but the crowd is not satisfied with what they have done to their doctor.

“Let us go and break his windows! Enemy of the people!” The whole crowd yells.

The consequences are grave. He is dismissed from his job. His daughter loses her teaching job; his landlord ejects him; his little boys suffer bullying in school and are told to excuse classes until further notice. Everyone who should help him avoids him. They say they dare not annoy “the majority” and their “public opinion.”

The play ends without a reprieve for “the enemy of the people.” But the man insists that he is the strongest man and that “the strongest man in the world is he who stands most alone.” I think he is naive. That is not what the world is. The one who stands alone stays alone and lonely and without power. Power resides where people stand. The people stand where power is. That explains, perhaps, why Donald Trump is Time Magazine’s ‘Person of the Year’.

We started 2024 eleven and a half months ago bitterly divided over what was truly evil and what was godly. We are ending the year divided still over who is angel and who is Satan. In the next two weeks, it is almost certain that we will roll over into the new year the raging Dele Farotimi vs Afe Babalola war of ‘justice’. There is also the tug of war over whether the tax reform bills potentially threaten or benefit the poor. In those two cases, we will be made to state who our “enemy” is. Unfolding also is the Kemi Badenoch/Yoruba vs Kashim Shettima/ Northern Nigeria debate. In 2025, Ibsen’s ‘An Enemy of The People’ will be staged across the entirety of our court and political systems. May God keep us alive – and well.

Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has offered amnesty to criminals in the state, declaring that they have until the end of February 2025 to lay down their arms.

The governor also announced plans to launch a joint security operation to tackle insecurity in the state.

Soludo said the operation is codenamed ‘Operation Udo Ga Achi’, which means ‘Let Peace Reign’.

The governor who briefed journalists at the Anambra State Governor’s Lodge on Tuesday, said his government has identified armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism and touting as the principal problems causing insecurity in the state.

He said: “As for touting, the State Anti-touting Agency codenamed SASA is tackling that in Onitsha and they are doing quite well.

“When we came in as governor, about seven local government areas were in the grip of hoodlums, but we took on them head on and liberated all those communities.

“Today, we hear that a handful of some of those criminals earlier dislodged have now come together and have been terrorizing the state.

“We have had reports of people being kidnapped, and vehicles snatched, but in the coming days, we will launch Operation Udo Ga Achi. We have procured here 168 patrol vehicles which would be distributed to various security agencies.

“Apart from the support we will be given the security agencies, we are also deploying ICT in the fight against insecurity.

“We are calling on criminal elements who would want to partake in our amnesty programme to come forward and surrender themselves and their arms. We are giving them from now to end of February to come and surrender and we will be ready to help them start life afresh.”

Speaking on the continuous incarceration of separatist leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and the fact that many of the criminals hide under the cover of his detention to perpetrate crime, Soludo insisted that indications have shown that what is happening is organized criminal enterprise and has nothing to do with Kanu’s detention.

He said: “I have been at the forefront of the call for the release of Kanu, I even said that in the worst case scenario, I was ready to keep him here at the Government House and produce him anytime he is needed.

“Part of the reason was that we really need to sit down, to interrogate this whole idea. But for people saying that the insecurity is because of his detention, I want to tell you that Nnamdi Kanu himself and IPOB, the organisation he leads, have made several press releases dissociating themselves from the kidnap for ransom and criminality that is ongoing.

“The truth of the matter is that criminals have now emerged, hordes of them organize themselves, using his (Kanu’s) name. I’m not so sure that even if he comes now and says stop that they will hear him. They have tasted blood and they will not stop. They go for kidnappings and they are making millions from it, so they will not stop.

“Imagine someone who is riding okada and they recruit him and he goes into the bush and all his life he has never had N100,000 at once and he joins the group and all of a sudden they do a successful kidnap operation and he gets one million or two from ransom. Tomorrow you think he will want to leave? In fact the one who tells him to leave the business will be his enemy.

“So the matter is much more complicated now and it is taking a life of its own. It is now lucrative business. All of them talking about agitation are just using that as a cover to get the sympathy of the people, especially those who are not informed. They present themselves as liberators. You are a liberator and you stay in the bush and you want us to believe you? They now add to it idolatry. The first thing they put in any town they go to is a massive shrine.”

The governor said henceforth, his government will begin to revoke lands of any community who harbour criminals. He added that members of such communities who give food or contribute money to take to them in the bush will be treated as collaborators.

He said: “Also, any house that is found to have harboured kidnappers will henceforth become the property of the government.”

[DailyPost]

The Edo State House of Assembly, on Monday, suspended all 18 local government chairmen and their vice chairmen for two months. 

The lawmakers further directed the leaders of the legislative arms in the councils to assume control of their administration during the suspension period. 

The decision followed the adoption of a motion moved by Isibor Adeh, representing Esan Northeast 1 Constituency, and seconded by Donald Okogbe of Akoko-Edo 2 Constituency. 

Governor Monday Okpebholo, in a petition dated November 16, 2024, titled “Insubordination and Gross Misconduct by the 18 Local Government Chairmen Over Their Refusal to Submit Financial Records for Scrutiny,” called on the Assembly to address the issue. 

While moving the motion, Adeh cited Section 20(b) of the Local Government Act, which empowers the House of Assembly to suspend any local government chairman for two months pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct. 

The motion was supported by 14 lawmakers, and opposed by six, while three members abstained from voting. 

Speaker of Edo Assembly, Chief Blessing Agbebaku, who directed the Clerk of the House, Yahaya Omogbai, to do a head count of the members, declared that insubordination and gross misconduct would not be allowed from the council chiefs.

In a related development, the lawmakers also screened and confirmed four nominees as Chairman and members of the Edo State Sports Commission.

The commission to be chaired by Amadin Enabule, has Godwin Bazuaye, Frank Illaboya, and Anthony Odianosen as members.

[TheNation]

The National Bureau of Statistics has revealed that Nigerians paid a total of N2.23tn as ransom over the 12 months between May 2023 and April 2024.

This sum was paid by households affected by kidnapping incidents, highlighting the growing threat posed by criminal activities in the country.

According to the NBS’s latest Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey report, an estimated 51.89 million crime incidents were recorded across Nigerian households in the reference period.

The survey showed that the North-West region had the highest incidence of crime, with 14.4 million cases reported, followed by the North-Central region with 8.8 million incidents.

In contrast, the South-East region reported the least crime, with 6.18 million incidents.

The findings also revealed that rural areas were more affected by crime than urban areas, with 26.53 million crime incidents in rural households compared to 25.36 million in urban areas.

The report highlighted the severity of kidnapping, with 4.14 million households experiencing home robbery.

Of those affected by kidnappings, 65 per cent were forced to pay ransom to secure the release of victims.

The average ransom paid was N2.67m, contributing to the total of N2.23tn paid by Nigerians to criminals during the 12 months.

Despite this, only 36.3 per cent of those who experienced home robbery reported the incidents to the police, with a similarly low reporting rate for kidnapping.

The report read, “Nationally, an estimated 51,887,032 crime incidences were experienced by households. The North-West (14,402,254) reported the highest incidences of crime at the household level, followed by the North-Central (8,771,400), while the South-East (6,176,031) reported the least. The result also shows that the crime incidence in the rural area (26,526,069) was higher than that of the urban area (25,360,963).

“In Nigeria, 4,142,174 households experienced home robbery. Less than half (36.3 per cent) of the households who were victims of home robbery reported their experience to the police. Among households that experienced kidnapping incidents, 65.0 per cent paid a ransom.

“The average amount paid as ransom was N2,670,693, with an estimated total ransom of N2,231,772,563,507 paid within the reference period.”

Many victims cited a lack of confidence in law enforcement and a belief that police intervention would not lead to meaningful action as the main reasons for not reporting.

The survey also revealed that 21.4 per cent of Nigerians fell victim to crime at the individual level, with phone theft being the most common crime, affecting 13.8 per cent of the population.

While 90 per cent of phone theft victims reported the crimes to the police, only half of those victims were satisfied with the police response.

Also, the survey estimated that 1.4 million Nigerians were victims of sexual offences, with most incidents occurring in someone else’s home or the victim’s residence.

Only about 22.7 per cent of sexual offence victims reported the crimes to the police.

Despite the widespread nature of crime, public perception of safety remains low.

The survey found that 9.6 per cent of Nigerians believed they were at risk of becoming victims of crime within the next 12 months.

The fear of crime was higher in rural areas, where 13 per cent of the population felt vulnerable, compared to 7 per cent in urban areas.

The report also questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies, particularly the police, in responding to emergencies.

Only 33.1 per cent of Nigerians reported that security agencies responded to emergency calls within 30 minutes.

The survey revealed that approximately 4 out of 10 households interacted with state or local security forces during the survey period, with half of these households contacting the Nigerian Police.

However, satisfaction with police responses was notably low, especially in cases of livestock and crop theft, where only 42.9 per cent and 42.4 per cent of victims expressed satisfaction, respectively.

In many rural areas, local vigilante groups were seen as a more reliable source of security.

[Punch]

…..Senate Urges Federal Government to Fund Modern Ranches for Safety Enhancement

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has criticized the media, stating that they thrive on bad news, emphasizing that only negative stories are deemed newsworthy.

According to Akpabio, while security agencies prevent numerous criminal activities, these successes are rarely reported, as only bad news makes headlines.

Akpabio made these remarks during a debate on an urgent motion regarding the ongoing banditry and killings in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, moved by Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro (PDP, Gombe South).

In response to contributions from former Senate Deputy Leader, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), Akpabio stated, “When you become a governor, you will understand what happens with security votes. The number of attempts foiled by security forces surpasses the ones that succeed, but those are rarely reported. Security agencies often intercept criminals before they commit their acts, but these successes are overlooked.”

He continued, “It is true that state governments play a vital role in security, and that the responsibility for maintaining peace and order should not fall solely on the federal government. Every Nigerian must contribute to security, peace, and harmony.”

Earlier, Senator Ningi had questioned the role of state governors in ensuring security, pointing out that each state receives at least N500 million monthly as security votes. He stressed that the constitution designates governors as the chief security officers of their states, meaning they must take responsibility for the safety of lives and property.

Meanwhile, the Senate has called on the federal government to fund the establishment of modern ranches across the country to improve safety and enhance economic productivity for both herders and local communities. The Senate also resolved to create laws defining the limits of economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty and to regulate movement to protect the rights and safety of Nigerians.

The Senate urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the recent attacks in Gombe, apprehend the perpetrators, and prosecute them.

Additionally, the Senate called for the urgent establishment of a joint police and military taskforce in Billiri to prevent further killings and requested the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the North East Development Commission to provide relief materials to displaced victims.

The Senate also mandated its committees on Legislative Compliance, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to ensure compliance with these resolutions and to seek long-term solutions to insecurity in the region.

Senator Yaro, who introduced the motion, called for urgent action to address the recurring banditry attacks in Billiri, particularly following the deadly assault on several villages by suspected herders on December 11, 2024. He condemned the killings, arson, and widespread displacement caused by the attackers.

In his contribution, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) advocated for the establishment of federal government-funded modern ranches, which he believes would promote safety and economic productivity for both herders and local communities. Dickson emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to implement the ranching initiative, citing the economic challenges faced by herders who travel long distances.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) reminded the Senate of a previous agreement to hold a national public hearing to explore legislative solutions to security challenges tied to economic activities and movement. He also stressed the need to define individual rights within the context of ECOWAS, ensuring that the rights of one person do not infringe on the rights of others.

The Senate continues to seek legislative action to address the escalating security concerns and promote national stability.

[Vanguard]

Bovi Ugboma, the Nigerian comedian, has opened up about his parenting philosophy, stressing the importance of communication over physical punishment.

In an interview with The Honest Bunch, Bovi said he prioritizes talking to his children about their mistakes rather than flogging them.

The comedian shared his personal experience, stating that the beatings he received as a child had no positive impact and instead contributed to abusive tendencies.

He also encouraged parents to reflect on their motivations for disciplining their children.

“They will still go wrong, offend you but it will reduce gradually. All the beatings we got from our parents made no difference. It just made us abusive.”

Bovi also revealed that his family relocated to London due to concerns about his children’s education.

He said he desires to protect his son from bullying, which he argued was prevalent in Nigerian boarding schools.

“We moved abroad because of my children’s education. My son moved first when he wanted to start secondary school. I went to boarding school so I know the effect and benefits but the last thing I would be alive to witness is the bullying of my child,” he added.

“So I said to myself I will send my son to a boarding school because of it’s benefits but not in this environment.”

Bovi is married to Kris Asimonye Ugboma and they have three children.

[TheCable]

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Aisha Garba, an international development specialist, as the Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education (UBEC).

Garba, a Senior Education Specialist with the World Bank, brings more than twenty-four years of experience driving impactful programmes in education for human and economic development, working in Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Kenya, the USA, and the United Kingdom.

With over 15 years of hands-on experience at the World Bank, Garba has consistently led end-to-end design and management of education programmes and reforms, from conceptualisation to completion and impact assessment.

Apart from being actively interested in and involved in human development issues, the development specialist will share her rich network with governments, development partners, and communities, as well as the skills she acquired working in fragile, conflict, and violent settings to deliver sustainable solutions in basic education.

Garba had previously worked on the team that met the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) targets in Nigeria and consulted for the World Bank, Department for International Development, BOND-UK, Regent Foundation, and Muslim Aid Organization.

She is an alumna of Petra American University in Jordan, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts combined degree in English and Computer Studies in 2000. She later got a Master's in International Development at the University of Birmingham in the UK in 2007.

The President expects the new Executive Secretary of UBEC to drive the renewed hope and vision of providing and supporting quality education and ensuring that Nigerian children become globally competitive.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has been awarded the inaugural "African of the Decade" title, recognizing his exceptional contributions to Africa's development over the past ten years. The award was presented during the 2024 Africa Investment Forum in Rabat, Morocco, hosted by the All-Africa Business Leaders Awards in partnership with ABN Group and CNBC Africa.

The award celebrates individuals who have driven profound, lasting changes on the continent. Dr. Adesina, who concludes his decade-long tenure as AfDB President in 2025, has been a transformative leader, lauded for his visionary achievements in improving the socio-economic fabric of Africa through strategic initiatives like the Bank’s "High5" priorities: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.

During the ceremony, ABN Group Chairman Rakesh Wahi described Adesina as an emblem of ethical leadership, emphasizing his ability to deliver results that address Africa's most pressing challenges. CNBC Africa Chief Editor Godfrey Mutizwa echoed these sentiments, highlighting Adesina’s innovative partnerships and development strategies.

Revolutionizing Agriculture and Infrastructure

Before his AfDB leadership, Adesina served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, where he spearheaded groundbreaking reforms. Among his notable achievements was the introduction of the e-wallet system, a digital innovation that eliminated corruption in the fertilizer sector and directly delivered subsidized inputs to millions of Nigerian farmers via mobile phones. This system dramatically increased agricultural productivity and enhanced livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

At AfDB, Adesina championed partnerships with global institutions, including a landmark collaboration with the World Bank to bring electricity access to 300 million Africans. Under his leadership, AfDB has mobilized billions of dollars in investment, positioned Africa as a global economic hub, and tackled challenges ranging from infrastructure gaps to climate resilience.

Driving a Vision for Sustainable Growth

The awards committee noted that Adesina’s leadership embodies a commitment to addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges. Among his key contributions:

• Attracting global investment to Africa’s renewable energy and infrastructure sectors.
• Launching initiatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Empowering women and youth through targeted programs such as the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative.
• Responding to crises, including AfDB’s pivotal role in mitigating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic across African nations.

A Heartfelt Dedication

Accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Grace Yemisi Adesina, Dr. Adesina expressed his deep gratitude upon receiving the honor. "This award is a testament to what is possible when we believe in the transformative power of Africa’s potential," he said, dedicating it to the people of Africa.

"God did not make a mistake when He made me an African. I will do all I can, to my final breath, for Africa," Adesina vowed, underscoring his unwavering dedication to the continent’s progress.

Inspiring a Legacy of Leadership

As Dr. Adesina prepares to conclude his presidency, his legacy serves as a benchmark for ethical and impactful leadership. His work has not only uplifted millions of lives but also redefined Africa's global narrative as a continent of innovation, resilience, and opportunity.

The "African of the Decade" award sets a high standard for future leaders, celebrating the achievements of individuals who drive meaningful, transformative change on the continent. Dr. Adesina’s accomplishments, from agricultural innovation to infrastructure investment, stand as a testament to the power of visionary leadership in unlocking Africa’s vast potential.

[https://www.devdiscourse.com]

Lately, there has been much hoopla in the media about the new Tory Party leader in the United Kingdom, Mrs. Kemi Badenoch. From the media accounts I have read, this remarkable lady has pulled herself up by her bootstraps, rising from ground zero through diligent academic pursuits, building a successful professional career, and ultimately venturing into politics, where she has risen to astronomical heights in British politics.

In my assessment, her accomplishments are phenomenal, and she embodies the classic example of hard work yielding great rewards.

Unfortunately, commentaries about her coming from her ancestral country, Nigeria, have been largely negative. Her “offense” appears to be that she has, on one or two occasions, painted Nigeria in an unfavorable light. Among those who have lambasted her for not presenting Nigeria positively are my good friends, former Aviation Minister Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission. Most recently, Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has joined the fray by publicly criticizing Mrs. Badenoch as a potential prime minister of the UK.

Stunningly, Vice President Shettima even suggested that Badenoch should drop her first name, Kemi, if she no longer wanted to be associated with Nigeria. His remarks received a sharp response from the Tory leader, who asserted that she is not obliged to launder Nigeria’s image.

The question is: What value does this heated exchange in the media between Nigeria’s Vice President and a potential UK Prime Minister bring to either country?
In my view, the incendiary comments will yield nothing positive for both sides.
To put things into context, it is worth recalling that Mrs. Badenoch is not the first UK leader to portray Nigeria negatively. Former British Prime Minister David Cameron infamously referred to then-President Muhammadu Buhari as the leader of a “fantastically corrupt country” in front of the late Queen Elizabeth II Notably, President Buhari did not flinch, let alone express outrage.

But unsurprisingly, Cameron’s remark sparked debate on social media, with opinions divided. Some Nigerian youths even blamed Buhari for the odious statement, arguing that his rhetoric—such as always accusing Nigerians of corruption and branding her youths as lazy—had contributed to the negative perception of Nigeria and Nigerians globally.

Going back further, when the All Progressives Congress (APC) was in opposition, its then-spokesman, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and other high-ranking party leaders often described Nigeria in derogatory terms to discredit the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in their pursuit of political advantage. At that time, it seemed not to occur to them that such rhetoric would empower foreigners to disparage the country. In fact, it was such odious comments that became the ammunition that Cameron exploited during Buhari’s visit to Buckingham Palace.

Given this history, it is puzzling why Chief Fani-Kayode, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, and, especially, Vice President Shettima, are now trying to hinder Badenoch’s progress in the UK based on her negative portrayal of Nigeria. These seasoned politicians surely understand that at her current stage in her political career, Badenoch—like many politicians before her—must make calculated remarks to align with her constituency and political objectives. Nigerian politicians can not deny playing to the gallery of public opinion while climbing the political ladder.

Arising from the above, what justification exists for the uproar about Badenoch’s remarks? What has she said that is not already in the public domain? Furthermore, the issues she referenced are arguably no longer as prominent in Nigeria today as back in the days when she was in Nigeria.

So, instead of seeing Badenoch as an adversary, Nigerians should celebrate her achievements and allow her to chart her course. In fact, we should make efforts to prove to her and indeed the world that things are no longer what Mrs Badenoch thinks of Nigeria.

That is why I have titled this piece: “Let Kemi Badenoch Be All She Can Be.”

It is worth recalling that in my column of November 26, titled: “Kemi Badenoch’s Remarkable Ascent in UK Politics: A Milestone for the Black Community,” I explored multiple factors that could have influenced Badenoch’s apparent disdain for Nigeria. Her views, as she has shared during her political engagements, seem rooted in her traumatizing personal experiences growing up in Nigeria.

From her accounts, it is evident that those incidents deeply affected her, prompting her to leave Nigeria for the UK at the age of 16. Who knows? She may still be grappling with the trauma of those early experiences of insecurity and other challenges she endured.

Are we not aware, through historical accounts, that back in the day, when the Queen of England uttered the phrase “off with their head,” the victim was executed, often without due process, as the concept of the rule of law was absent at the time? Would UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, or even King Charles III, be offended if a Nigerian, an American, or someone of another nationality expressed disapproval of such historical practices? Certainly not, as those narratives belong to the past and have long been consigned to the dustbin of history.

Similarly, Mrs. Badenoch’s unpleasant experiences in Nigeria before she left at the age of 16—now nearly three decades ago, as she is 44—are also in the past. The realities she described no longer define Nigeria, and we, as a nation, owe it to ourselves and the world to redefine our country and move forward.

Of course, as Badenoch rightly stated, she can not engage in image laundering for Nigeria, and to be frank, we truly need to take responsibility for that ourselves. Ironically, it is the persistent hammering of her negative remarks that continues to keep the issue alive in the public domain, prompting this intervention.
I can bet that there are millions of Nigerians in the diaspora of Nigerian ancestry who share Badenoch’s sentiments of resentment towards Nigeria and the system. It behooves of Nigeria, especially Abike Dabiri-Erewa-Dabiri led diaspora commission to change such a negative mindset.

To refresh our memories, I am republishing not just an excerpt from the earlier referenced article but the entire piece to allow readers to revisit my position and gain a holistic view of the matter. I ask for the understanding of readers as I do so.

Below is the full article:

As Great Britain, once a colonial power ruling over 56 nations now part of the Commonwealth, transitions into a more inclusive society, a symbolic form of ‘reverse colonization’ seems to be unfolding. This phenomenon, exemplified by individuals from formerly colonized nations rising to leadership roles in the UK, highlights the open-mindedness of Britons. Their inclusive approach has afforded immigrants, including those born in the UK, equal opportunities alongside the native population.

The adventurous spirit of the British has also contributed to London’s evolution into a cosmopolitan hub. Home to people from various former colonies, London has become a melting pot of cultures and a global financial center rivaling cities like New York, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

Historically, Britain’s dominance as a seafaring nation—beginning after the country’s founding in 1707—enabled it to build an empire that spanned nearly a quarter of the globe. Through its control of vast territories in Africa, India, Australia, Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean, the British Empire left an indelible mark on the world. While the UK is no longer the imperial force it once was, it remains a vital player on the global stage.

Should Kemi Badenoch—of Nigerian heritage and now the leader of the Tory Party currently in opposition—one day become the UK’s Prime Minister, it would be a monumental achievement, not just for Nigerians but for Africans and the global Black community. Her rise would echo that of Barack Obama, whose election as the first Black President of the United States inspired millions worldwide.

However, it is unlikely that Nigerians had a direct hand in Badenoch’s political success. Her ascent in the UK’s political sphere did not hinge on support from Nigerian-majority constituencies. Therefore, Nigerians must allow her to continue climbing the political ladder without the negativity that sometimes characterizes reactions to such achievements, as evidenced by the vilification she is currently contending with.”

In my view, if Kemi Badenoch reaches the pinnacle of UK politics, she may eventually acknowledge her Nigerian roots. However, even if she doesn’t, her success remains significant. It would serve as an inspiration for Nigerian-born Britons and the broader Black community in the UK, as well as in other parts of Europe and North America, to pursue political leadership—marking a meaningful step forward for the Black race.

In the United States, Barack Obama deliberately distanced himself from Black identity politics during his presidential campaign, recognizing that such an approach could limit his appeal in a nation where Black Americans constitute just 13% of the population. By contrast, Hispanics account for approximately 14%, while Caucasians make up around 67%. The significant role of rural Caucasian voters in Donald Trump’s victories in 2016 and 2024—and their influence in Keir Starmer’s Labour Party overtaking the Conservatives earlier this year—underscores the importance of appealing to broader, more diverse constituencies in multi-ethnic democracies.

For candidates from minority backgrounds aspiring to lead multi-ethnic nations, emphasizing racial or ethnic identity can create barriers. Hence, Badenoch, like others before her, must navigate this challenge.

Historically, Rev. Al Sharpton and Rev. Jesse Jackson campaigned for the U.S. presidency with platforms centered on Black identity, but neither achieved electoral success. Barack Obama learned from these missteps, avoiding identity politics and instead galvanizing young voters through social media, ultimately winning the presidency in 2008. Similarly, Kamala Harris, the current U.S. Vice President distanced herself from minority-focused identity politics. This is why she did not prominently emphasize her Black heritage during her campaign but instead celebrated her marriage to Doug Emhoff, a Caucasian, to broaden her appeal further.

Kemi Badenoch appears to be following a similar path in the UK. Her husband, Mr. Hamish Badenoch is a successful Caucasian banker—a detail that could work in her favor when elections are called. As leader of the Conservative Party, this positioning may enhance her chances of becoming the UK’s next Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, the debate over reparations for the historical atrocities of slavery perpetrated against Africans continues to stir emotions. At the recent Commonwealth meeting in Apia, Samoa, African representatives renewed their calls for reparations. However, King Charles dismissed the demands, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer brushed them aside. This response frustrated African advocates and reignited debates about the relevance of the Commonwealth, especially if it primarily serves to promote the economic interests of the UK as a former colonial power, with Africa as a market for its goods and services.

The UK’s resistance to reparations—unlike Germany, which compensated Israel for the Holocaust—is likely rooted in the immense financial burden such a commitment would impose, especially given the UK’s current economic difficulties.

Nevertheless, Britons, like Americans, have demonstrated commendable inclusivity and liberalism by granting citizens of foreign ancestry equal opportunities to rise to the highest echelons of political power. This inclusive approach could, for now, be seen as a symbolic form of reparation for the UK’s inability to meet Africa’s demands for financial reparations.

In this context, Kemi Badenoch’s rise to prominence—an African woman occupying one of the most significant positions in British politics—offers a powerful symbolic acknowledgment of historical injustices. It reflects the readiness of a former colonizer to atone, in part, for past atrocities such as slavery and the exploitation of Africa’s economic resources. Her potential candidacy for the Prime Minister would reaffirm this gesture of non-financial reparation, serving as a tribute to Africa’s historical exploitation, particularly that of West Africa.

That said, I do not support those in Nigeria who have criticized Badenoch for her disparaging remarks about the country during her bid for Conservative Party leadership. As Otto von Bismarck once said, “Politics is the art of the possible.” This pragmatic view mirrors the boldness that led Bismarck to organize the infamous Berlin Conference of 1884/85, where Africa was partitioned among European powers. The vestiges of this partitioning persist today and are part of the reason the continent remains underdeveloped.

Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, is famously associated with the statement: “In politics, nothing happens by accident.” This highlights that political events and decisions are rarely spontaneous but are typically the result of meticulous planning, strategy, and deliberate manipulation.

Kemi Badenoch’s ambition to become the next Prime Minister of the UK is legitimate, and her approach reflects this aspiration. By aligning herself with the expectations of the British electorate, she has positioned herself as a candidate who embodies British political ideals. However, her portrayal of Nigeria, which has drawn criticism from Nigerians, likely serves to reassure skeptical voters in the UK of her commitment to those ideals—ideals that differ markedly from the political climate in her ancestral home.

Critics who find her comments about Nigeria disparaging may view them as unnecessary, but Napoleon Bonaparte’s assertion that “In politics, absurdity is not a handicap” offers a counterpoint. This underscores the reality that political maneuvering often includes statements or actions perceived as controversial or unconventional.

The ruthless ambition often associated with political pursuits is exemplified by Nicolae Ceaușescu, the former communist leader of Romania, who reportedly declared: “I will sell my mother to buy power. After getting power, I will buy my mother back.” While the literal feasibility of such a claim is questionable, it reflects the unrelenting drive and willingness to sacrifice personal relationships for political gain. Similarly, Ghanaian politician Freddie Blay echoed this sentiment, stating: “I love politics, and I would spend money to win power. If you are not careful, I will even be ready to sell my mother for money to retain my position.”

This stark perspective highlights an inconvenient truth: such a mindset underpins the actions of many politicians globally, particularly in authoritarian systems. Politics, after all, is a game of power and influence, often involving the orchestration of events to achieve specific objectives. While this doesn’t always imply malicious intent, it does illustrate the calculated nature of political strategy. As Groucho Marx wittily observed: “Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly, and applying the wrong remedies.”

From a historical standpoint, Badenoch’s current political strategy in the UK parallels that of Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR), whose rise to the U.S. presidency (1933–1945) was shaped by significant challenges, including the Great Depression and World War II. FDR’s leadership was marked by calculated and strategic decisions, much like Badenoch’s tactical rise to the top of the Tory party as she positioned herself for a shot at the premiership.

As the saying goes: “There is no smoke without fire.”

Badenoch’s seemingly critical stance on Nigeria may be driven by the significant obstacles she faces in her political journey. These include her non-Caucasian identity, which may lead some to question whether her African heritage aligns with British identity. This skepticism is compounded by concerns that her Nigerian background might influence her leadership style if she were to become Prime Minister. Overcoming these challenges requires Badenoch to carefully navigate perceptions and prove her commitment to the ideals and values expected by the British electorate.

Given the unconscious bias her non-Caucasian background might invite, Kemi Badenoch appears to have strategically distanced herself from Nigeria. This move is likely aimed at improving her chances of securing the top political position in the UK—Prime Minister and resident of 10 Downing Street. To achieve this, she has deliberately redefined herself as a quintessential Briton, fully embodying British political ideals and values.

Therefore, Badenoch’s public criticism of Nigeria’s political standards plays into this strategy, enhancing her appeal to the UK electorate who need to be assured that her values as a politician are higher than the typical Nigerian standard. These voters, to whom she must demonstrate her allegiance, are the ones whose support she needs to succeed in her political ambitions—not the Nigerians who have no voting rights in the UK and are criticizing her for not pandering to them.

Given the above reality, it is essential to view Badenoch’s actions through the lens of political survival. She faces significant challenges as she navigates her role as the first Black woman to lead a major political party in the UK. Her situation can even be likened to popular cultural phenomena. For instance, her political journey resembles contestants on the Big Brother reality television show, where individuals use charm, wit, and strategy to outlast competitors and win over audiences to clinch the coveted prize. Similarly, it mirrors the power struggles and scheming seen in Game of Thrones, where characters fight for survival and dominance in a high-stakes, ruthless environment.

Understanding the immense pressures Badenoch faces should prompt Nigerians to support her rather than criticize her. Hence, this intervention aims to provide another point of view (PoV) on the matter. Unfortunately, many Nigerians, despite sharing a common ancestry with her, have been quick to attack her leadership style and political stance. Hopefully, this article will help explain the rationale behind her political posture, which has drawn ire from Nigerians who perceive it as disloyal or unflattering. By recognizing the challenges Badenoch confronts, critics may better understand her choices and judge her more fairly.

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In stark contrast to the criticism Kemi Badenoch has received for not openly embracing her Nigerian heritage, Rishi Sunak, the former UK Prime Minister of Indian descent, enjoyed overwhelming support from both the Indian diaspora in the UK and Indians back home.

1. Distinct Diaspora Dynamics
The Indian diaspora in the UK is larger, more established, and maintains stronger cultural and economic ties to India. In comparison, while the Nigerian community in the UK is growing, it lacks the same level of organization and connection to Nigeria.
2. Nigerian Political Challenges and Skepticism
Nigeria’s history of political instability and corruption has fostered skepticism among its citizens. Consequently, many Nigerians may hesitate to celebrate a politician, especially one who has achieved success within a foreign political system.
3. Limited Connection or Representation
Unlike Rishi Sunak, who openly embraces and celebrates his Indian heritage, Kemi Badenoch has not prominently highlighted her Nigerian roots and has even downplayed them. Her apparent reluctance, possibly influenced by Nigeria’s challenges, may contribute to the lack of enthusiasm among Nigerians.
4. Divergent Expectations from Diaspora Figures
Nigerians tend to focus on the tangible contributions their diaspora representatives make toward Nigeria’s development rather than celebrating individual achievements abroad. This difference in priorities may explain the muted reception to Badenoch’s political ambitions.
5. Media Portrayal and Controversy
The role of social and traditional media can not be ignored. Badenoch’s controversial remarks about Nigeria have sparked significant backlash, with media platforms amplifying these sentiments and shaping public opinion.

In Conclusion

Rishi Sunak and Kemi Badenoch (if she becomes Prime Minister) will not be the first politicians from minority backgrounds to lead the UK. Several British Prime Ministers have had diverse ancestries:
• William Pitt the Younger: Born in England, he became Prime Minister at the age of 24 and had Irish ancestry through his father, a British politician.
• Benjamin Disraeli: An English-born Prime Minister whose father was an Italian immigrant.
• Harold Wilson: Born in England, Wilson’s father, a chemist, had Scottish roots.

Kemi Badenoch, an African of Nigerian heritage, could similarly rise to lead the UK, following the precedent set by these figures.

Some critics might attempt to frame her success as “reverse colonialism.” However, she will not be the first minority from a former colony to rule the UK. Like Nigeria, India was colonized by Britain, and Rishi Sunak served as UK Prime Minister for two years (2022–2024) without significantly favoring Indians or enriching India. This demonstrates that such fears are baseless.

As Badenoch appears to have a strong chance of becoming the next UK Prime Minister, Nigerians should refrain from actions or criticisms that could undermine her ambitions.

To Kemi Badenoch, my advice is simple: remain composed (translated in Yoruba as fara-bale). Although you are British, your umbilical cord is still tied to Nigeria, and you will need the blessings of Nigerians as you ascend to the highest office in your current country of citizenship.

I join others in wishing her, as well as other politicians of Nigerian heritage, climbing the political ladders in their respective countries, the best of luck as they pursue their dreams of becoming Prime Ministers or Presidents.

The piece reproduced here was written and published several weeks ago, on November 26, to be precise, and it remains relevant today as Vice President Kashim Shettima's comment has re-ignited the cataclysm.

Some things are better left in line with the conventional dictum: “Let sleeping dogs lie.” because Nigeria has everything to lose if we keep dredging up and keeping alive old negative news in the public space.

Kemi Badenoch is the least of Nigeria’s problems right now. Our leaders should try to excite Nigerians with the seemingly good news that the ice is thawing concerning the cost-of-living crisis. This may be evidenced by the gradual drop in petrol pump prices, positive signs in the naira-to-dollar exchange rate, improvements in our foreign exchange reserves in the CBN, increased crude oil production, reduced crude oil theft by international syndicates hitherto siphoning oil by rupturing pipelines just as there have been significant security improvements, which National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and General Chris Musa, Chief of Defense Staff, have been highlighting.

My plea is that let’s stop being nihilistic embrace the ideology of life and let's live.

As I advised Mrs. Badenoch, in my earlier intervention, in politics, it is better to be inclusive than exclusive. Hence you can not afford to ostracize yourself through alienation. Having made your point, you must tone down your rhetoric so that you can earn the goodwill of Africa-Uk voters who you will need when you are allowed to contest for the UK premiership.

Justifiably, you are not like other minorities such as Rishi Sunak, who served as the UK’s Prime Minister without disparaging India, or Barack Obama, who became the US President without making negative comments about Kenya while pursuing his ambitions. The truth is that Sunak and Obama certainly did not have the type of traumatic experiences that you’ve cited as defining your perception of Nigeria. But that does not justify stigmatizing your ancestral country.

So you will be relieved if you eschew bitterness and try to exorcise yourself of the sordid memories of Nigeria driving your angst. Most importantly, you need to free your mind and stay focused on your goal of becoming the next Prime Minister of the UK, and by God's grace, your dream will materialize.

And don’t forget: if you succeed, you will still need Nigeria.

Magnus Onyibe
Entrepreneur, public policy analyst, author, democracy advocate, development strategist, alumnus of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA, and a former commissioner in the Delta State government, sent this piece from Lagos, Nigeria.

To continue with this conversation and more, please visit www.magnum.ng.

In a world where representation matters, two Nigerians, Kemi Badenoch and Ademola Lookman, stand as symbols of success on different stages. However, the paths they have carved out offer distinct lessons about identity, ambition, and the diverse definitions of what it means to represent Nigeria.

To explanatorily put the forgoing in its contextual perspective, it is not a misnomer to recall that Kemi Badenoch, a British Conservative politician, who currently serves as the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade was born in Wimbledon, London, to Nigerian parents and raised partially in Lagos, has risen to prominence in a system where diversity in leadership has historically been limited.

Badenoch has consistently emphasized her Nigerian roots, recounting childhood experiences in Lagos and her journey through British society. However, her alignment with conservative policies, especially on issues like immigration and race relations, has often sparked debates. While some criticize her for what they perceive as a detachment from the struggles of immigrants and minorities, others celebrate her as a trailblazer breaking barriers in the highest echelons of British politics.

Her trajectory underscores the power of adaptability and the importance of navigating complex systems with strategic finesse. Badenoch’s story inspires Nigerians to see the global stage as an arena where their voices can influence policies and narratives.

Yet, this success comes with complexities. Her critics in Nigeria often question whether her policies align with the hopes and aspirations of her ancestral homeland. While she has occasionally acknowledged her Nigerian heritage, her focus remains firmly on the British electorate, a necessary priority in her role as a UK government official. Her career trajectory highlights the delicate balance many diaspora Nigerians must strike between representing their roots and thriving in adopted nations.

In contrast, Ademola Lookman represents a different brand of Nigerian excellence. Born and raised in England, the talented footballer embraced his Nigerian heritage by switching allegiance from England to Nigeria in international football. This decision was not just a personal choice; it was a statement of pride and connection to his ancestral home.

Lookman’s exploits on the pitch, including his impressive performances for Atalanta in Serie A and the Nigerian Super Eagles, have endeared him to fans across the globe. His commitment to representing Nigeria highlights a sense of loyalty that transcends national borders. Lookman’s Nigerian roots are not just a backdrop to his career, they are central to his identity and the choices he has made as an athlete.

A defining moment that showcased Lookman’s pride in his Nigerian heritage was his acceptance speech at the 2024 CAF Awards, where he was named African Player of the Year. In his heartfelt speech, Lookman spoke in Yoruba language, as he thanked his fans, teammates, and the Nigerian Football Federation. This moment resonated deeply with Nigerians, who saw in Lookman’s words a reflection of their collective pride and resilience.

His ability to exert his “Nigerianese” on such a global stage is a testament to his understanding of what it means to be Nigerian in today’s interconnected world. Unlike many diaspora athletes who often shy away from overt displays of their heritage, Lookman embraced it fully, cementing his place as a cultural and sporting ambassador for Nigeria.

While Badenoch’s journey reflects a narrative of breaking ceilings in global politics, Lookman’s story is one of embracing grassroots connections. Badenoch works within the framework of British society, often prioritizing her adopted nation’s interests over her Nigerian heritage. In contrast, Lookman’s decision to play for Nigeria is a deliberate act of embracing his roots and contributing to the nation’s identity on the global stage.

The differences between Badenoch and Lookman’s approaches to their Nigerian heritage are striking. Badenoch’s Nigerian roots often appear as a footnote in her political narrative, while Lookman places his heritage front and center. Badenoch’s success demonstrates how Nigerians can thrive in international systems by assimilating and excelling within established structures. On the other hand, Lookman’s career highlights the power of cultural pride and the importance of connecting with one’s origins, even in the face of global challenges.

Both Badenoch and Lookman teach important lessons. Badenoch reminds us that Nigerians can compete and excel in any sphere, even at the highest levels of global governance. Her story is one of courage and resilience in a demanding political landscape. On the other hand, Lookman’s choice teaches the value of loyalty and the importance of reconnecting with one’s heritage, even when it might not guarantee personal glory or convenience.

Their stories also reveal the different ways Nigerians can contribute to national and global narratives. Badenoch’s influence lies in shaping policies that, while primarily benefiting Britain, still position Nigerians as capable leaders in global arenas. Lookman’s impact, meanwhile, is felt more directly by Nigerians who see him as a source of national pride and a representative of their collective aspirations.

The dichotomy between Kemi Badenoch and Ademola Lookman’s experiences also highlights the broader question of how the Nigerian diaspora can best represent their heritage. Should success be measured by one’s ability to influence global systems, as Badenoch does, or by one’s commitment to directly uplifting and connecting with their roots, as Lookman exemplifies? Perhaps the answer lies in a combination of both approaches, leveraging global platforms to create meaningful change while staying deeply connected to one’s heritage.

Like Kemi Badenoch, Nigerians can dare to dream big, stepping into global arenas with confidence and purpose. Unlike Ademola Lookman, some might choose to prioritize external influence over local connection. Yet, both paths hold valuable lessons for Nigerians navigating their roles in an increasingly interconnected world.

Ultimately, whether in politics or sports, these individuals showcase the extraordinary potential of Nigerians to excel, inspire, and make a difference, both at home and abroad. As Badenoch shapes policies that affect millions and Lookman continues to thrill fans with his prowess on the pitch, they remind us that there is no single path to success. What matters most is staying true to one’s values, embracing one’s identity, and making a lasting impact, wherever one’s journey leads.