Youth leaders from the Yoruba Nation have expressed their disapproval of Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent suggestion that Kemi Badenoch, a prominent member of the UK Conservative Party, should drop her Yoruba name. The leaders lauded Badenoch for her principled stand against corruption and her advocacy for justice and accountability in Nigeria.
In a joint statement, Prophet Ayodele Ologunloluwa and Comrade Oyegunle Oluwamayowa Omotoyole applauded Badenoch for speaking out against the violence perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen and Boko Haram, which has caused significant harm to Yoruba communities in the Southwest. They described her as a courageous figure who represents integrity and stands as a role model for the younger generation.
The group emphasized their pride in Badenoch’s Yoruba heritage, calling her name a symbol of cultural identity and dignity. They condemned Shettima’s remarks, describing them as an affront to Yoruba pride and a distraction from the critical issues facing the nation.
“Her name is a source of pride for all Yoruba people, and any attempt to undermine it is unacceptable,” the leaders stated, urging Yoruba youths to rally behind figures like Badenoch who embody integrity and advocate for justice.
In their statement, they highlighted the numerous challenges facing Nigeria, including insecurity, corruption, and economic instability. They called on Shettima to focus on addressing these pressing issues rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.
“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,” the statement read. “It is imperative for Vice President Kashim Shettima to redirect his focus to urgent national concerns like the deteriorating economy, rampant kidnappings, ineffective leadership, and systemic injustice.”
The youth leaders rejected the Vice President’s comments, asserting that Kemi Badenoch’s Yoruba name is a cherished symbol of her heritage and a reflection of the Yoruba people’s cultural pride. They also criticized the broader cultural and linguistic divides between the Yoruba and Northern communities, urging for mutual respect and understanding.
The group reiterated their commitment to safeguarding Yoruba interests and fostering dialogue to promote unity while preserving the cultural dignity of the Yoruba Nation. They stressed the importance of acknowledging Nigeria’s diverse identities and working towards a collective future that respects all cultures.
The statement concluded with a call for solidarity and a reminder of the need for leaders to focus on addressing Nigeria’s challenges rather than engaging in distractions.
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