British politician Kemi Badenoch stirred up a storm when she bluntly criticized the Nigerian police during a speech. Reflecting on her upbringing in Nigeria, Badenoch stated, “The police in Nigeria would rob us. The police stole my brother’s shoes and his watch. It’s a very poor country, so people do all sorts of things.” These comments, while resonating with some Nigerians who have faced police brutality, sparked a backlash among others who accused her of denigrating her heritage.

Badenoch’s unapologetic tone left Nigerians divided. Critics argued her comments were overly harsh and lacked nuance, failing to acknowledge improvements in the system. On the flip side, supporters felt she merely highlighted the systemic issues many Nigerians have long endured corruption, extortion, and abuse of power by law enforcement.

To give her some credit, Badenoch’s critique is far from new. Nigeria’s police force has faced accusations ranging from theft and harassment to more severe allegations like torture, extrajudicial killings, and even complicity in kidnappings. Movements like #EndSARS emerged as evidence of the public’s frustration with these injustices. Yet, critics argue that Kemi oversimplified the narrative without acknowledging ongoing reforms.

The Nigerian government wasn’t amused. Vice President Kashim Shettima condemned Badenoch for “denigrating her country of origin.” In response, her spokesperson doubled down, asserting that Badenoch was “not interested in doing Nigeria’s PR” but rather telling it like it is.

While Kemi’s honesty struck a chord with those who have suffered under Nigeria’s broken systems, her critics contend that she failed to acknowledge the resilience of Nigerians working to demand accountability. Could Kemi have chosen better words? Perhaps, but the crux of her critique that Nigeria’s systems, including its police, need radical change is a sentiment many Nigerians can relate to Badenoch’s remarks may have overlooked these ongoing efforts, but they also highlight a harsh reality: reforms must translate into tangible improvements. From increasing police salaries to reducing extortion incentives to implementing technology-driven accountability measures like body cameras and independent oversight boards, the Nigerian police force has a long journey ahead. Badenoch’s critique, while controversial, serves as a reminder of the urgent need for reform that goes beyond surface-level changes. Nigerians deserve a system that protects rather than preys a goal that will require both public demand and government willpower to achieve.

Maybe it’s time to stop shooting the messenger and instead focus on addressing the message. After all, the Nigerian police’s reputation isn’t improving itself anytime soon.