Nigerians Mock Kemi Badenoch as She Laments Racist Attacks, Party Infighting

Kemi Badenoch, the new leader of the UK Conservative Party, has revealed she is facing a wave of racist abuse and political hostility since taking on the role, but her remarks have drawn mockery from many Nigerians online.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, Badenoch admitted she was shocked by the level of vitriol directed at her, describing it as “Kemi derangement syndrome” – a reference to the relentless scrutiny she faces. She explained that some MPs and sections of the public appear unable to accept her victory, questioning her achievements because of her race and Nigerian heritage.

“There’s a certain cadre of people who clearly can’t cope with the fact that I won this, and I’m doing it,” Badenoch said. “The level of personal attacks from anonymous people, it’s hysterical … People used to talk about Trump derangement syndrome. I think there’s a Kemi derangement syndrome: ‘How could she possibly have done this?’”

The Conservative leader, who was born in Wimbledon but spent her early years in Nigeria before returning to the UK at 16, also noted a rise in ethno-nationalist rhetoric on social media. She said she had been accused of not achieving success on her own merit, with critics attributing her rise to external factors.

Badenoch, who has often distanced herself from her Nigerian identity, has previously stated she “no longer feels Nigerian” and has criticised anti-racism campaigners. This stance has fuelled some of the online backlash from Nigerians, with many ridiculing her current complaints about racism. Social media users argued that she had downplayed the struggles of minorities in the past but is now seeking sympathy when the attacks are directed at her.

Her leadership also faces challenges from within. Speculation is growing that her shadow justice secretary, Robert Jenrick, may attempt to replace her, with the Conservatives polling at just 17%. Badenoch dismissed the rumours as “wishful thinking,” accusing party rivals of playing games while Britons face serious issues.

“I think it’s sore losers … Many of those people having those conversations think this is a game. But the lives of people in this country aren’t a game,” she added.