Atiku’s Aide to Shettima: “Focus on More Productive Matters”

Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar, has advised Vice President Kashim Shettima and others criticizing UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch to focus on more meaningful pursuits.

Shaibu’s remarks followed Shettima’s criticism of Badenoch during the 10th Annual Migration Dialogue in Abuja, where the Vice President addressed her comments about Nigeria’s political and social climate.

Shettima’s Criticism

At the event, Shettima expressed pride in Badenoch’s achievements but disapproved of her disparaging remarks about Nigeria, including her suggestion that Nigerian politicians misuse public funds and her recollections of insecurity and corruption during her upbringing in the country.

Shettima remarked:

“Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the British Labour or Conservative Party… is entitled to her opinions; she even has every right to remove the Kemi from her name, but that does not undermine the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is Nigeria.”

He also highlighted Nigeria’s demographic significance, projecting its status as the third most populous nation by 2050.

Shaibu’s Response

Shaibu, however, called for introspection, arguing that Badenoch’s Nigerian ancestry does not automatically make her beholden to the country’s image or politics. Writing on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Shaibu stated:

“Those criticizing @KemiBadenoch should pause for a moment of introspection. The mere fact that her name is Kemi or that she has Yoruba roots does not automatically render her Nigerian. After all, Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus is not the son of God.”

He also suggested that Shettima should focus on more productive endeavors, concluding:

“@officialSKSM should find something useful to do with his time!”

Background on Badenoch’s Remarks

Badenoch, during her political career, has openly criticized corruption and insecurity in Nigeria, recalling negative experiences during her upbringing. Her comments have sparked mixed reactions, with some defending her right to express her opinions and others accusing her of unfairly tarnishing Nigeria’s image.

This exchange underscores ongoing debates about national identity, criticism from diaspora figures, and the responsibilities of political leaders to balance pride in their origins with constructive criticism.