Yoruba Nation youth leaders have commended Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, for her stance against entrenched corruption in Nigeria’s governance.
The leaders also praised her vocal opposition to the violent acts perpetrated by herdsmen and Boko Haram, which include kidnappings and attacks targeting Yoruba communities in the Southwest.
In a joint statement issued by Prophet Ayodele Ologunloluwa and Comrade Oyegunle Oluwamayowa Omotoyole, the youth leaders expressed their support for Badenoch, hailing her as a courageous voice for justice and integrity.
They particularly acknowledged her advocacy for greater accountability and her commitment to stating the challenges faced by Nigeria, including insecurity and corruption.
The group firmly rejected a recent suggestion by Nigeria’s Vice President that Badenoch should remove “Kemi” from her name, which reflects her Yoruba heritage.
“Her name is a source of pride for all Yoruba people, and any attempt to undermine it is unacceptable,” it said.
The leaders urged Yoruba youths to rally behind figures like Badenoch, who exemplify integrity and serve as role models for future generations.
They reiterated their commitment to safeguarding Yoruba interests and called for a united front against all forms of violence and injustice in the region.
The statement read, “We express our unwavering support for Kemi Badenoch, a distinguished member of the Conservative Party in the UK. We commend her courageous stance against the entrenched corruption within Nigeria’s governance, particularly in relation to the threats posed by Fulani herdsmen and Boko Haram, who have perpetrated heinous acts of violence, including kidnapping against our Yoruba people in the Southwest.
“We stand in solidarity with Kemi Badenoch as she strives to illuminate these pressing issues and advocate for the safety and protection of our community.”
It said, “We wish to convey a firm message to Vice President Kashim Shettima: it is imperative that you redirect your focus to the urgent concerns that afflict our nation. The deteriorating economy, rampant kidnappings, ineffective leadership, and systemic injustice require your immediate attention.
“Instead of pursuing distractions, they urged Shettima to champion meaningful solutions that serve the interests of the Nigerian populace.
“We implore you to cease critiques of Kemi Badenoch, as her observations resonate with the stark realities faced by our people. As a proud daughter of Yoruba heritage, she stands in solidarity with our cause and has no allegiance to the violent narratives fostered by extremist groups, including Boko Haram.
“Furthermore, we unequivocally reject the recent suggestion from the Vice President that Kemi Badenoch should remove “Kemi” from her name. “Kemi” is not merely a name; it is a cherished representation of our Yoruba identity and heritage. This situation underscores the deep cultural and linguistic divides that exist between the Yoruba and Northern communities.”
They explained that the differences mark the challenges to their coexistence as a singular nation.
The Yoruba Nation celebrates its unique identity and remains steadfast in advocating for our cultural dignity and integrity.
“As members of the Yoruba Nation Youth, we call for mutual respect and understanding. It is time to acknowledge our distinct identities while working towards a collective future that honours each of our cultures.
“We are committed to fostering dialogue and cooperation, with the hope of uniting our great nation in ways that respect our diverse heritages,” the statement said.
