5 Reasons Kenyans Are Far Behind Nigerians in Every Aspect – Fani-Kayode’s Bold Statement Sparks Outrage

5 Reasons Kenyans Are Far Behind Nigerians in Every Aspect – Fani-Kayode’s Bold Statement Sparks Outrage

 

 

 

Global News Reports That The Former Nigerian aviation minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, recently found himself at the center of a social media storm after making controversial remarks about the perceived superiority of Nigerians over Kenyans. His comments come amid a growing Twitter feud between netizens from both countries.

 

Taking to his official Twitter handle @realFFK on September 3, 2016, Fani-Kayode boldly asserted, “The truth is that the Kenyans are far behind us in every respect. I know their history inside out: they are just too small for us.” This statement quickly ignited a fierce debate online.

 

 

Fani-Kayode’s Comments

In a series of tweets, Fani-Kayode expressed strong views, urging Kenyans to stop attacking Nigerians on social media, implying that Kenyans needed to “know their place” in the African hierarchy. One of his most contentious statements read, “The truth is, the worst Nigerian is better than the best Kenyan.”

Further fueling the controversy, he compared the educational backgrounds of Kenyan and Nigerian leaders. According to him, while Kenyan leaders were involved in the Mau Mau movement—a revolt against British colonial rule—Nigerians were studying at prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge. He tweeted: “When Kenyan leaders were still doing ‘mau mau,’ swinging from trees and eating one another, ours were at Oxford and Cambridge universities.”

These statements were met with widespread backlash, as they were seen as inflammatory, especially given the historical significance of the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya’s fight for independence.

Origins of the Feud

The Twitter clash between Nigerian and Kenyan netizens appeared to have been sparked by speculation surrounding the movements of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg during his 2016 visit to Africa. Zuckerberg’s quick visits to both countries led to a debate about which nation had more appeal to the billionaire tech entrepreneur.

While Nigerian Twitter users highlighted Zuckerberg’s engagement with Nigerian tech entrepreneurs, Kenyans pointed out his praise for innovation in Nairobi, particularly in the areas of technology and entrepreneurship. This light-hearted discussion soon escalated into a more serious nationalistic Twitter war.

Backlash and Reactions

Fani-Kayode’s tweets were widely criticized, with many Kenyans and even some Nigerians calling them condescending and divisive. Kenyan Twitter users reminded him of their country’s achievements, such as their booming tourism industry, strides in wildlife conservation, and their world-renowned dominance in athletics.

Moreover, many found his comparison between the Mau Mau fighters and Nigerian leaders at Oxford and Cambridge offensive. For Kenyans, the Mau Mau fighters are national heroes who played a critical role in the country’s liberation from British colonial rule, making Fani-Kayode’s comments particularly disrespectful.

Broader Implications

This incident highlights the growing tension between African countries as they vie for recognition and influence on the global stage. Both Nigeria and Kenya have achieved notable milestones in various sectors. However, these online disputes detract from opportunities for collaboration and unity among African nations. Many commentators have called for African countries to focus on shared challenges like poverty, corruption, and underdevelopment, instead of indulging in divisive rhetoric.

Fani-Kayode, known for his outspoken and often controversial views, has not apologized for his statements. As the debate continues, his comments serve as a reminder of how national pride can sometimes veer into unnecessary hostility, further complicating relations between African nations.

Conclusion

Femi Fani-Kayode’s remarks have reignited debates on African unity and the role of social media in fostering either camaraderie or division among nations. While his defense of Nigeria during the Twitter feud may resonate with some, his comments about Kenya have been widely regarded as disrespectful and inflammatory. As the online conversation continues, this incident serves as a reflection of the competitive spirit between African nations, as well as a call for more constructive engagement and mutual respect.