Seun Kuti Calls for Ban on UK Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch Over Comments on Nigeria

Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti has called on African governments to ban Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, from visiting the continent following her controversial comments about Nigeria.

Badenoch has been accused of making disparaging remarks about Nigeria, describing her upbringing in the country as marred by fear, insecurity, and widespread corruption. Despite criticism from figures such as Vice President Kashim Shettima, Badenoch has stood by her statements.

Reacting during a recent Instagram live session, Seun Kuti criticized Badenoch for allegedly disrespecting Nigerians and their history.

“Many have been praising this woman [Kemi Badenoch], someone who has been insulting us and even our ancestors,” Kuti said. “She suggested we should pay Europeans for colonialism—compensating them for the atrocities they committed, including killing millions of our ancestors and exploiting our lands.”

The Afrobeat artist further argued that Badenoch’s comments were deeply offensive and harmful, calling for decisive action. “She should be banned by African governments from stepping into Africa. And if she does, she should be jailed,” he declared.

Kuti’s remarks have sparked heated discussions online, with many weighing in on Badenoch’s statements and the larger implications for African pride and history.