Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK Conservative Party, has responded to Vice President Kashim Shettima of Nigeria, saying she stands by her comments about Nigeria, even though some people think she insulted the country.

Badenoch reportedly described her time in Nigeria as being filled with fear and insecurity due to corruption and other issues.

Born in the UK in 1980 to Nigerian Yoruba parents, Badenoch later married Hamish Badenoch, a Scottish banker, and took his surname.

Before becoming the leader of the Conservative Party, Badenoch called Nigeria a socialist country with corrupt politicians and many security problems.

“This is my country, and I don’t want it to become like the place I left behind. I grew up in Nigeria, where I saw politicians misuse public funds and create a poor political system. Socialism brought poverty and shattered dreams for millions. I came to Britain for a better life where hard work matters,” she said.

She also described growing up in Nigeria as scary, saying, “I lived in fear, always making sure doors and windows were locked, waking up at night to sounds of burglary, and hearing neighbors scream during robberies, wondering if our house was next.”

Vice President Shettima responded on Monday, accusing Badenoch of disrespecting Nigeria. He also told her to drop “Kemi” from her name if she was not proud of her Nigerian roots.

When asked about Shettima’s comments, Badenoch’s spokesperson said she stands by her statements and is not interested in promoting Nigeria’s image.

“She is proud of her leadership role in the UK and speaks the truth as she sees it. She won’t change her words and fully supports what she said,” the spokesperson stated.