Nigerian Police Urged to Boycott Work Over Kemi Badenoch’s Allegations

In an unexpected twist, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has advised the Nigerian Police Force to stage a symbolic 24-hour boycott in response to allegations made by Kemi Badenoch, a Nigeria-born leader of the British Conservative Party. MURIC’s suggestion comes after Badenoch accused Nigerian police officers of theft during an interview with The Free Press.

During the interview, Badenoch shared a negative experience involving Nigerian police officers, claiming they stole her brother’s watch and shoes during her childhood in Nigeria. When asked about her trust in law enforcement, she praised British police and criticized their Nigerian counterparts, saying:

“The police in Nigeria would rob us. It’s a very poor country, so people do all sorts of things.”

Her remarks ignited controversy, with many Nigerians and groups like MURIC questioning the fairness of her statements.

MURIC’s Response

Professor Ishaq Akintola, director of MURIC, strongly condemned Badenoch’s comments, describing them as myopic and parochial. In a statement, MURIC defended the Nigerian police, arguing that Badenoch unfairly generalized the force based on isolated incidents.

The organization sarcastically suggested that Badenoch should bring British police officers to Nigeria during her visits if she harbors such distrust for the local force. They further recommended that Nigerian police officers temporarily withdraw their services during her stay as a lesson in the value of law enforcement.

MURIC also highlighted numerous accounts of heroic and selfless acts by Nigerian police officers to counter Badenoch’s narrative. These include:

Assisting stranded motorists and providing fuel or vehicle repairs without expecting bribes.

Rescuing victims during emergencies, such as kidnappings and robberies.

Exemplary conduct, such as refusing bribes, which has earned commendations from citizens.

One notable example occurred in 2016 when Nigerian police swiftly rescued a robbery victim and others stranded in a forest near Abuja within an hour of receiving a distress call.

MURIC also questioned the integrity of Badenoch’s beloved British police force, pointing to recent scandals. Reports revealed that 593 officers were dismissed in 2024 for gross misconduct, including serious crimes like sexual assault. One high-profile case involved David Carrick, a former officer sentenced to 30 years in prison for dozens of rapes and other offenses.

By comparing these incidents with the dedication shown by Nigerian officers, MURIC sought to demonstrate that no police force is without flaws.

The controversy has sparked a broader debate on stereotyping and the challenges faced by law enforcement in developing countries. While Nigeria’s police force struggles with corruption and resource constraints, many argue that the systemic issues require reform rather than condemnation.

MURIC’s call for a boycott serves as a symbolic pushback against what they see as an unfair and overly critical portrayal of Nigerian institutions.

To Kemi Badenoch, MURIC had a pointed message:

“If you don’t trust Nigerian police, perhaps you should consider bringing British officers along with you during your visits. However, even British law enforcement has its share of scandals.”