An Open Letter to Kemi Badenoch

Dear Kemi Badenoch,

As the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party and a proud Nigerian by birth, your recent criticism of Nigeria has been disappointing and disheartening. At a time when our nation is striving for economic recovery and stability, such negativity undermines our efforts and casts a shadow over the progress being made.

Rather than focusing on criticism, I urge you to consider how your influence can contribute to Nigeria’s growth. Words matter, and yours have the power to either discourage foreign investors or inspire confidence in Nigeria’s potential. Let us not forget that Nigeria is not a poor country. While challenges persist, our government has made bold strides to address them, such as the removal of subsidies on petroleum and foreign exchange. These reforms signal a commitment to redirecting funds towards productive use and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Furthermore, progress has been made in addressing insecurity in the northern and eastern regions. Despite our struggles, Nigeria remains a nation deeply rooted in cultural and religious values, emphasizing community, respect, and tradition. These are qualities that set us apart and provide a foundation for resilience and hope.

While no country is without its flaws, including the UK, where issues such as rape, discrimination, and moral decline exist, Nigeria offers a unique identity and strength. It is unfair and unhelpful to compare the two in a manner that diminishes Nigeria’s dignity and achievements.

Nigeria has never inflicted harm on another nation, unlike certain historical events in the UK’s past, such as the injustices of colonization. In our country, we honor and respect our Queen Mothers—symbols of nurturing and leadership. Let us uplift that spirit of leadership rather than tear it down.

Kemi Badenoch, as a leader, a role model, and a mother to the next generation, you carry a responsibility to inspire unity and hope. Criticizing Nigeria from afar does little to solve its challenges; instead, it risks stifling the growth and development we are working so hard to achieve.

Nigeria remains the African Giant—resilient, resourceful, and proud. Let us work together to champion its success and build a brighter future for its people.

Sincerely,
Yinka Sanusi
Concerned Citizen

Two Nigerians Arrested in Kuwait for Armed Robbery at Exchange Office

Two unidentified Nigerian nationals have been arrested by the Kuwait General Department of Criminal Investigation in Ahmadi Governorate on suspicion of involvement in an armed robbery that occurred at an exchange office in the Mahboula district, south of Kuwait City.

The robbery, which took place recently, was meticulously planned and executed by the suspects, according to a Wednesday statement from the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior, as reported by Arab Times Online. A 35-second video, circulated by PUNCH Metro, shows one of the suspects wearing a hooded top, exiting a white car before entering the exchange office. Inside the office, the suspect is seen pointing what appears to be a gun at the staff, although the footage lacks audio.

The suspects made off with foreign currencies equivalent to 4,600 Kuwaiti Dinars, valued at approximately $14,918.69, based on currency conversion rates.

Authorities acted swiftly, apprehending the suspects within 24 hours of the robbery. Investigations revealed that the criminals had thoroughly planned the heist. They reportedly monitored the exchange offices from nearby rooftops to identify peak hours and used stolen license plates to conceal the identities of the vehicles involved.

One of the suspects, whose name has not been disclosed, confessed after his arrest in Mahboula. He admitted to surveying the office and notifying his accomplice when the location was clear of customers. The second suspect was apprehended in the Al-Qurain Market, and authorities found the stolen money, as well as a small bag containing crystal meth at his residence.

The Ministry of Interior confirmed that both suspects and the seized items, including the narcotics, have been referred to public prosecution for further legal action.

This robbery case adds to a worrying trend involving Nigerians and criminal activities abroad. In 2019, several Nigerians were captured on video conducting an armed robbery in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. During that period, a Nigerian woman and three other foreign nationals were executed in connection with drug trafficking offences.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the current Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, previously spoke about the executions, noting that the executed Nigerian woman was the eighth individual to be put to death in the oil-rich kingdom for drug-related crimes in just three years.

The swift action by Kuwaiti authorities in apprehending the suspects highlights the ongoing international scrutiny of Nigerian nationals linked to criminal activities abroad. As investigations continue, both suspects will face legal proceedings, and the Kuwaiti public is waiting for further updates on the case.

Students Allegedly Assault Physics Teacher, Leaving Him in Coma in Shocking Attack in Kogi State

In a shocking incident that has left the community in disbelief, students from Ebira Muslim Community College Okengwe (EMCCO) in Okene LGA, Kogi State, allegedly assaulted their Physics teacher, Mr. Muktar Salihu, leaving him in a coma. The attack, reportedly led by Abdulbatin, a senior secondary school (SS2) student and the son of a prominent traditional ruler in the region, has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about discipline in schools.

Reports indicate that the assault took place after a confrontation between the teacher and students, culminating in a violent attack that left Mr. Salihu unconscious. The attack was reportedly led by Abdulbatin, the son of a local traditional ruler, who allegedly humiliated and physically assaulted the teacher. The severity of the attack resulted in the teacher collapsing and falling into a coma. He is currently receiving medical treatment in an undisclosed hospital, and his condition is still being monitored.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the incident was not only violent but also involved a public humiliation of the teacher by the students. The specific details of the altercation remain unclear, but the gravity of the assault has sent shockwaves through the local community.

The attack has drawn swift condemnation from local residents, with many expressing concern over the growing lack of respect for authority figures in schools. The District Police Officer (DPO) has taken action by stepping in to investigate the case, and authorities have ordered the traditional ruler to present his son, Abdulbatin, for questioning.

The involvement of the son of a prominent community leader has added a complex dimension to the case, with local authorities calling for justice to be served, regardless of the student’s background.

The incident has raised difficult questions about the state of discipline, respect, and authority in Nigerian schools today. While violence in schools is not uncommon, the involvement of a student from a powerful family has brought the issue to the forefront of public discussion. Many parents, educators, and community members are now asking how schools can better foster a culture of respect and accountability, ensuring that such incidents do not repeat themselves.

As the investigation into the assault continues, the community awaits further developments. The incident has reignited calls for stronger measures to address violence in schools, with a particular focus on ensuring that students understand the consequences of such actions.

Authorities have assured the public that they are handling the matter with the utmost seriousness, and further legal steps are expected as the investigation unfolds.