Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has sparked backlash from Nigerians after claiming he felt “perfectly safe” in the country during a recent public engagement.
Johnson made the remark while visiting Imo State earlier this week, addressing stakeholders at an economic summit.
The comment quickly went viral on social media, drawing sharp criticism from users who argued that the security afforded to high-profile visitors does not reflect the reality faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Moreover, citizens shared contrasting experiences, pointing to recurring incidents of banditry, kidnappings, and communal attacks in parts of northern and central Nigeria.
“This is the kind of statement you make when moving with a convoy that blocks every road for you,” one user wrote, while another described Johnson’s remark as “a political compliment, not the truth.”
Some commentators also warned that the former UK leader’s description could be misused to downplay the persistent security challenges Nigerians face.
Others, however, defended the statement, noting that certain regions remain safe for business and tourism.
