Slavery: Nigerian think tank tackles Kemi Badenoch

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

A Nigerian think tank, Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has noted that recent remarks by the UK Labour Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, opposing reparations for slavery and colonialism, undermine the grave and lasting impacts of these historical atrocities.

The opposition leader with Nigerian roots has come under criticisms over her views on the role of of UK in the slave trade with many describing her stance as misinformed.

Reacting in the same vein, PeacePro, in a statement by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, emphasized that no amount of revisionism can erase the brutal legacy of slavery and colonialism, which involved the widespread exploitation of millions and has left enduring scars on societies around the world.

The organization has called on former colonial powers, including the United Kingdom, to formally acknowledge and take responsibility for the historic injustices of the transatlantic slave trade and colonial rule.

According to Hamzat, the harms inflicted on African nations and other colonized communities are incalculable, affecting generations economically, socially, and culturally.

Hamzat further noted that, while reparations as being canvased by some may be necessary to address ongoing impacts, no compensation could fully account for the scope of suffering endured under these oppressive systems.

“While we advocate for reparative justice as an essential step toward healing and global reconciliation, we must also recognize that no compensation could ever fully account for the immeasurable loss endured,” said Hamzat. “The legacies of slavery and colonialism are embedded in global economic and social structures today. Only by confronting these truths and accepting responsibility can former colonial powers begin to address these persisting inequalities.”

PeacePro said it statement drew parallels to the response following the Holocaust, in which nations accepted accountability and committed to reparations and ongoing education.

“By contrast, little has been done to formally address the consequences of centuries of forced labor, cultural destruction, and economic exploitation that characterized the colonial and slave trade era.

“PeacePro is urging governments, particularly those of former colonial powers, to adopt a comprehensive approach to reparative justice. This includes formal apologies, educational initiatives that openly address colonial histories, and efforts to address systemic inequities that are the lasting legacy of these atrocities.

“PeacePro asserts that this approach is necessary to establish a foundation of global peace and respect among nations.”