British Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has stirred controversy with fresh criticisms of Nigeria, describing her education at Federal Government Girls’ College Sagamu as a “prison-like” experience.
In a recent viral clip, the UK politician recalled using machetes to cut grass and fetching water with buckets during her secondary school days in Ogun State. “That was like being in prison,” said Badenoch, who was born in London but raised partly in Nigeria before returning to Britain at 16.
The remarks mark the latest in a series of disparaging comments about her ancestral homeland:
1. Identity Denial: In August 2025, she stated she hadn’t renewed her Nigerian passport in 20 years and “no longer identifies as Nigerian” despite her upbringing in Lagos.
2. Childhood Trauma: During her 2024 Conservative leadership campaign, Badenoch claimed she grew up in constant fear in Nigeria, describing traumatic experiences with burglaries.
3. Citizenship Criticism: She told CNN her children can’t inherit Nigerian citizenship because she’s a woman, calling some cultural practices “not equal” to Western values.
4. Police Allegations: In December 2024, Badenoch accused Nigerian police of stealing her brother’s wristwatch and shoes during an interview about UK policing.
The comments contrast sharply with her 2010 political campaign when she actively courted Nigerian-British voters, writing: “I’m sick of Nigerians being portrayed as fraudsters…support someone who’ll improve our national image.”
Nigerian social media users have condemned what they call Badenoch’s “convenient patriotism,” accusing her of leveraging her heritage for political gain while disparaging the country that shaped her early years. Education alumni associations have particularly challenged her characterization of FGGC Sagamu, with former schoolmates defending the institution’s discipline standards.
Political analysts note the remarks come as Badenoch positions herself as a hardline conservative ahead of potential UK elections, with Nigeria serving as a rhetorical contrast to her vision for Britain.
