UK-based lawyer Baron Chymaker has ignited a fierce online debate after formally applying to renounce his Nigerian citizenship, stating that the country "hasn't given me anything." The announcement, made on July 9 via his X handle, where he is known for commentary on Nigerian and British legal issues, confirmed that his lawyer in Nigeria had submitted the necessary documents to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and that all statutory fees had been paid. "I cannot wait for the approval," he wrote.
Backlash and Defense
The post drew immediate and sustained criticism from Nigerians online, with many accusing him of abandoning his heritage. A common sentiment expressed was that no matter how far a Nigerian travels, their citizenship remains worth holding onto. In a follow-up post, Chymaker pushed back against what he described as misplaced outrage, arguing that the decision was entirely his to make. "I'm the one who made a decision to renounce my Nigerian citizenship, applied for it and spent my own money. A citizenship I have because my parents are Nigerian and you are crying non stop about it. What is going on?" he wrote.
Criticism of Nigeria's Offerings
Chymaker further challenged the idea that Nigerian citizenship was something to be proud of in his particular situation. "Nigeria as a country has not offered me anything, so I didn't even think twice to renounce my Nigerian citizenship. Cameroon as my country of birth has offered me more than Nigeria. I have nothing there," he said, adding that he still has investments in Nigeria and would continue to support the country regardless of his citizenship status. On the possibility of being denied a visa to Nigeria in the future, his response was equally blunt: "If I want to visit Nigeria, I will apply for a visa and if they don't approve my visa, I won't visit. That is my choice. Make yours."
Broader Context of Diaspora Sentiment
The lawyer's case is not entirely unusual, as Nigerians in the diaspora have increasingly spoken about the practical limitations of holding a Nigerian passport, from visa restrictions to the absence of benefits typically associated with citizenship in their countries of residence. His announcement comes as broader conversations about Nigerian citizenship, emigration and the japa wave continue to dominate public discourse both at home and in the diaspora. The application is currently awaiting approval from the Federal Government.
