Leader of the Conservative party Kemi Badenoch has reacted a video making the rounds of youths vandalising stores in the UK stating such scenes contrary to racial attributions cannot be seen in Africa specifically in Lagos.
Reacting to the video on her X page, the Tory leader said “Children smashing up shops in broad daylight, stealing and even filming themselves doing it as if it were a game, is a much bigger problem than is being recognised. This is a total collapse of consequences.
“To those making snide comments about race or black kids – you do not see scenes like this in Lagos or Nairobi. Not because the children there are different, but because actions have consequences.
“There are clear boundaries. Parents, communities, and the authorities do not wring their hands or look the other way.” She noted.
This positive affirmation about Nigeria signals Kemi Badenoch’s relaxing stance on Nigerian culture having been accused of denigrating the country in the past.
UK Cultural Problem
She noted the issue which has spread across the UK is a cultural one stating “Here, we have created a culture where too many young people believe they can do what they like and nothing will happen. That is the problem.
“We should be honest about where that leads. If a child loots a shop today, films it for social media, and faces no real consequence, they are going to do much worse tomorrow.” she pointed out.
Plans to Deploy More Police Officers
The Tory leader further announced plans by the Conservatives to deploy 10,000 more police officers, immediate justice and immediate punishment as part of its ‘Take Back Our Streets Campaign’.
She however noted the issue is not just a policing issue but a failure of authority at every level.
“Parents need to know where their children are and what they are doing. Discipline should start at home, not in a courtroom.”
“We have also weakened the system around them. Deterrence is the backbone of criminal justice. Labour have changed the law so anyone receiving a sentence under 12 months will automatically walk free, instead receiving a suspended sentence.
“When people believe offences like this will not lead to meaningful punishment, we should not be surprised when more of it happens. You get more of what you tolerate.” Badenoch concluded.
Conclusively, the Conservative party leader called for clear rules, real consequences, and the confidence to enforce them in a bid to bring back a culture of enforcement in dealing with crimes in the UK.
