“They stole my brother’s shoes and watch” — UK Conservative Party leader Badenoch recounts shocking experience with Nigerian police
British Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, has sparked controversy with a candid comparison of her experiences with Nigerian and British police forces.
In a widely-circulated interview with The Free Press, Badenoch recounted a troubling incident where Nigerian police allegedly stole her brother’s shoes and watch, underscoring issues of corruption and intimidation within Nigeria’s law enforcement.
Reflecting on the incident, Badenoch remarked, “The police in Nigeria will rob us (laughter). When people say I have this bad experience with the police because I’m black, I say well…I remember the police stole my brother’s shoe and his watch.”
She attributed this behavior to Nigeria’s economic challenges, explaining, “It’s a very poor country. People do all sorts of things. So, giving people a gun is just a license to intimidate.”
Her remarks came under scrutiny after Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima criticized her for allegedly denigrating Nigeria in her recent British media appearances.
In contrast, Badenoch praised the professionalism of British police, recalling a 2004 burglary incident at her home in the UK. She stated, “When I was burgled, for example, the police were there. They were helpful before they eventually caught the person.”
When asked if she trusted the UK police, she affirmed, “I do. My experience with the Nigeria Police was very negative. Coming to the UK, my experience with the British Police was very positive.”
Badenoch’s blunt comparison has fueled debates about law enforcement standards and corruption in Nigeria, highlighting the gap in policing practices between the two nations. Her remarks continue to draw both criticism and reflection on the need for systemic reform in Nigeria’s police force.
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