UK-Based Nigerian Replaces Shoes, Watch Allegedly Stolen From Badenoch
A Nigerian residing in the United Kingdom, James Akinwade, has made headlines by replacing the shoes and wristwatch that Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the British Conservative Party, claimed were stolen by members of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) from her brother.
Akinwade, who is listed as the international manager for popular Nigerian comedian Kenny Blaq on his Instagram profile, responded to Badenoch’s controversial remarks made in a viral interview in December 2024.
In the interview, Badenoch described her negative experience with the Nigerian police, claiming they had stolen her brother’s shoes and wristwatch during a visit to Nigeria. She explained, “My experience with the police in Nigeria was very negative, and coming to the UK, my first experience with the police was very positive. The police in Nigeria would rob us. I remember the police stealing my brother’s shoes and his watch. It’s a very poor country, so people do all sorts of things.”
Badenoch’s comments sparked a wave of outrage, particularly among Nigerians, who accused her of tarnishing the image of her homeland. Vice President Kashim Shettima was among those who criticized her remarks.
In an effort to respond to what he viewed as an unjust accusation against the Nigerian Police, Akinwade posted a video on social media showing himself purchasing a new pair of shoes and a wristwatch from a UK store. He took the items to the Conservative Party’s headquarters, where he handed them over to security personnel to be delivered to Badenoch.
Akinwade’s video featured a message that read: “On behalf of every proud Nigerian who felt genuinely hurt by those unfounded disparaging remarks about the Nigerian Police, we ‘buy back’ the stolen shoes and watch! (I hope it fits, tho..)”
The video quickly went viral across social media platforms, garnering mixed reactions. While many Nigerians supported Akinwade’s actions as a form of reparation, others questioned whether it was the most effective way to address the issue. However, Akinwade’s original video was later taken down from his account, although it continued to circulate on other platforms.
Akinwade’s gesture is a symbolic act of defiance against Badenoch’s criticisms, reflecting the deep emotions surrounding her statements and the pride that many Nigerians feel in defending the reputation of their country and its institutions.
