Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have come under fresh criticism for allegedly using their royal status to "promote themselves" during their recent three-day visit to Nigeria.
Royal commentator Lee Cohen remarked that the couple’s visit resembled a "quasi-royal tour," serving as a platform for them to act like celebrities rather than representing the royal family or their native countries. Speaking to GBN America, Cohen stated, "I believe that the Sussexes are casting about for any relevance, and they keep changing their branding and changing so many things, and selling jam. Are any of these things really working?"
He further added, "Now they've taken this opportunity to go on a quasi-royal tour in representation not of any nation, but in representation of their favorite subject, themselves."
GBN America host Nana Akua echoed Cohen’s sentiments, expressing a sense of nostalgia mixed with skepticism. "Whilst all the pictures and the coverage look great, I kind of felt a sense of nostalgia. I thought this would be wonderful if you looked at it and didn't know the backstory, you'd think how amazing this is. But unfortunately, you can't wipe the backstory."
Akua took a thinly-veiled jab at the Sussexes, noting the irony of the Nigerian national anthem being played during their visit, suggesting it indicated respect for the British Royal Family. Cohen responded, "There's great irony. If I were British, I would be outraged because the Sussexes only officially represent themselves, not the British nation. They are celebrities and social media influencers, a far cry from being the statesmen that this quasi-royal tour gives a whiff of."
Cohen continued, "And once again, as an American third party, I find it incredibly disrespectful to the British people that anyone would praise or celebrate their efforts in Nigeria, or anywhere, given how they have insulted the British people."
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have since returned to their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after concluding their trip abroad, following Harry's brief solo return to the UK.
