Kemi Badenoch’s identity debate holds zero value for Nigeria –Moghalu

Former presidential candidate and Economist, Kingsley Moghalu, has advised Nigerian leaders to focus on building the country’s economy, saying that the intense recent debate on Kemi Badenoch’s identity does not hold any value for the country.

Moghalu weighed in on the controversy in a post on his official X handle on Sunday.

Badenoch, a Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom, has faced criticism for comments seen as distancing herself from her birthplace, Nigeria. 

He said, “Even if she were to become the UK Prime Minister tomorrow morning, it would have absolutely ZERO implications (or benefits even) for Nigeria and Nigerians.”

Moghalu’s stance follows Badenoch’s rise in British politics and her recent comments distancing herself from her Nigerian roots.

“So why all the fuss? Nigerian leaders and Nigerians should fix Nigeria’s problems. “Claiming” Kemi or her “denying” Nigeria won’t solve them,” he said.

Earlier, Badenoch defended her remarks about Nigeria following criticism from the vice president, Kashim Shettima, who accused her of disrespecting her heritage.