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Chief Ameh Peter, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has said that Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party, has sparked intense reactions with her candid assessment of Nigeria’s challenges. He noted in a statement on Sunday that though her words may be difficult to hear, they underscore the urgent need for change in a country plagued by corruption, poverty, and a lack of opportunities.

According to the the CUPP scribe, Badenoch’s comments, drawn from her personal experiences growing up in Nigeria, highlight the pervasive corruption and misguided policies that have hindered the country’s progress. Her anecdotes about the police in Nigeria, who “would rob us” and stole from her brother, illustrate the breakdown of law and order in the country.¹

These experiences are, unfortunately, all too common for many Nigerians, who have been forced to flee their homeland in search of better lives. Badenoch’s emphasis on “labour values” such as freedom of speech, equality, and the presumption of innocence resonates deeply, as these values are essential for any functioning democracy.

Nigeria’s struggles are reflected in its rankings on the Corruption Perceptions Index (146 out of 180 countries) and the Human Development Index (161 out of 189 countries). Rather than dismissing Badenoch’s comments, Nigerians should use them as an opportunity for reflection and growth.

By addressing the underlying issues she raised, Nigerians can work towards creating a more prosperous and equitable country that its citizens can be proud to call home. This requires a collective effort from Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to demand better governance, transparency, and accountability from their leaders.

As Chief Ameh noted, Badenoch’s words serve as a wake-up call for Nigeria to confront its challenges head-on. He maintained that by embracing the truth, no matter how bitter it may be, Nigerians can begin to build a brighter future for themselves and for generations to come.

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