An Open Letter to Kemi Badenoch: Nigeria Deserves Respect, Not Interference

 SPONSORED

Dear Rt Hon. Kemi Badenoch,

As a concerned Nigerian, I write to express growing concern over your recent actions, policies, and public statements that appear to cast Nigeria in a negative light, or worse — undermine our nation’s sovereignty and dignity.

You serve today as a UK Cabinet Minister, but your roots trace back to Nigeria. While you have, at times, publicly denied your Nigerian identity, claiming to be “British and not Nigerian” when it suits political expediency, you cannot escape the responsibilities that come with your heritage — especially when your influence affects the lives and economies of African nations.

It is increasingly clear that under your leadership, policies and trade positions taken by the UK government toward Nigeria have lacked fairness, empathy, and respect. Whether through aggressive trade terms, restrictive immigration rules, or patronizing commentary on African governance, your role seems more aligned with the outdated machinery of neocolonialism than with genuine partnership.

Let me be clear: Nigeria is not perfect. We have our challenges, as does every nation. But we are not a nation to be lectured, manipulated, or dismissed. We are a sovereign people, building our own future — and we will resist any external force that attempts to derail our progress.

You of all people should understand the importance of standing for one’s homeland — not turning your back on it. It is one thing to be British, but quite another to actively distance yourself from Nigeria when it is politically convenient, only to involve yourself when it suits international negotiations or public image.

Power comes from God, not from Parliament or political parties. And with that power comes responsibility. No office lasts forever. The positions you hold today are temporary. What will last is your legacy — and how you used your influence.

If you truly wish to make a meaningful impact, use your voice and your position to support African development, not to suppress it. Speak with respect. Engage with fairness. Act with integrity. That is what real leadership demands.

We are watching. We are speaking. And we will not remain silent.

Nigeria will not fall — not from within, and certainly not from without.

Sincerely,

David Atake sikpa 

A Proud and Watchful Nigerian