A lawyer born in Nigeria and based in the United Kingdom, widely known as Baron, has announced that he has started the formal process to relinquish his Nigerian citizenship, triggering widespread debate on social media.
He shared the update on his verified X account (formerly Twitter), noting that his legal counsel in Nigeria had lodged the required paperwork and settled all associated fees.
Baron stated that he is currently awaiting formal endorsement from the relevant Nigerian authorities.
He wrote, “I have just received confirmation from my Nigerian lawyer that my application to relinquish my Nigerian citizenship has been forwarded to the SSFG and all dues have been cleared. I am eager for the approval.”
The statement prompted a flurry of remarks from Nigerians, with viewpoints sharply split.
One X user, ND Prince, showed interest in taking the same step, commenting, “How do I go about it? I want to change my Nigerian citizenship too.”
Another commentator, Blackgold, expressed understanding of Baron’s motives but said they could never abandon their ethnic affiliation, adding, “I see your point. I once considered the same move, but the thought of relinquishing my Igbo roots—since Igboland remains trapped in that troubled nation—holds me back. I am too proud of my heritage to let it go.”
Tammy contended that exiting the country does not resolve its challenges, emphasizing that citizens still bear responsibility toward Nigeria, and remarked, “Thank goodness Tinubu pays no attention to such matters; who will clean up this mess if we all flee and renounce our nationality? We remain citizens of this troubled land until I depart to join you. Thanks.”
Adebayo Daniel acknowledged Baron’s perspective but insisted he would not forsake his origins regardless of the nation’s situation, saying, “I understand your stance and wish you success. No matter how dire Nigeria becomes, surrendering my heritage and ancestral land is something I am extremely unlikely to do.”
The Official Mace described the decision as regrettable, warning that it could sever future generations from their cultural lineage and family connections, noting, “This is inadvisable no matter how dire the country is. You would deprive your children of their heritage and automatically cut them off from Nigerian relatives. This reflects the Igbo proverb ‘Ama gi eche la,’ which is contrary to tradition.”
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