The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has confronted Kemi Badenoch, the UK Conservative leader of Nigerian descent, over alleged false claims regarding Nigerian women and their citizenship status.

During an interview with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, Badenoch stated that she cannot transfer her Nigerian citizenship to her children due to her gender, asserting that it is “virtually impossible” to obtain Nigerian citizenship. This claim has sparked controversy and prompted a strong response from Dabiri-Erewa.

In an interview on Channels Television’s Hard Copy, Dabiri-Erewa refuted Badenoch’s assertion, labeling it as misinformation. “That is a lie. You go on international media and spew a lie. Why tell us something that is not true?” she said, expressing her disappointment with Badenoch’s public statements.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that denigrating Nigeria in such a manner would not go unchallenged. “When you denigrate your country, we’ll reply you. It’s not about me or the president or you. It’s about Nigeria,” she asserted.

Highlighting the achievements of many Nigerians abroad, she pointed out that numerous individuals are making significant contributions in the UK political landscape. “We don’t have to focus on one person,” she remarked, reinforcing the idea that the narrative should encompass the broader positive impact of Nigerians in the diaspora.

While acknowledging the challenges faced by some Nigerians overseas, Dabiri-Erewa reiterated the commission’s commitment to protecting and celebrating the achievements of Nigerians abroad. She stressed that diaspora engagement must be rooted in truth, responsibility, and a deep sense of patriotism.