Meghan Markle Finds Herself in Controversy as Nigerians Challenge Her Nationality Claims: Duchess’s DNA Test Stirs Debate
Meghan Markle is facing a wave of criticism as Nigerians vigorously contest her assertions following a Duchess DNA test that appears to defy her claims of Nigerian heritage. Nigerians are expressing their frustration and disappointment, with many accusing Meghan of seeking attention through unverified assertions.
The controversy emerged after Meghan attended Prince Harry’s Invictus Games, where she showed support for the event’s newcomers, including the Nigerian team, which made its debut alongside Colombian and Israeli teams during the sixth edition of the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Germany.
Meghan, 42 years old at the time, even waved the Nigerian flag during the volleyball match between Nigeria and Ukraine, demonstrating her backing for the Nigerian team. Both Meghan and her 38-year-old husband, Prince Harry, eagerly participated in the event, interacting with attendees and taking selfies to demonstrate their support for the Nigerian athletes.
Prince Harry, a former British soldier and the founding patron of the Invictus Games, is known for remaining impartial at the international adaptive sports tournament for soldiers and veterans that he launched in 2014. However, during the opening ceremony, he publicly acknowledged his wife’s support for Nigeria.
Despite the show of support, a recent article analyzing Meghan Markle’s background has gained significant attention among Nigerians. The article raises doubts about Meghan’s claims, particularly regarding her genetic ancestry, and provides compelling evidence that contradicts her statements.
Meghan had previously asserted that she had Nigerian heritage, even mentioning having “black blood.” Still, the article disputed these claims, suggesting that for Meghan to genuinely have ancestral ties to a Nigerian tribe, her mother would need to be the daughter of a Nigerian, which is not the case.
Meghan’s family hails from Cleveland, and the surname “Raglan,” which she claimed had Nigerian roots, can be traced back to William Ragland, a Methodist and a slave owner who migrated from Cornwall to North America in the 19th century, ultimately settling in Virginia, California, and North Carolina.
Furthermore, the article questioned the validity of Meghan’s assertion of being 43% Nigerian, citing her mixed racial heritage as a factor that made such a high percentage unlikely. It also criticized Prince Harry for openly discussing this topic, suggesting that it demonstrated a lack of understanding of genetic genealogy and DNA testing, particularly in the context of sensitive issues like ethnicity and heritage.
The controversy surrounding Meghan Markle’s alleged fabrication of DNA test results has ignited a broader debate, with many questioning the accuracy of her statements and the implications of publicly discussing such matters.
As Meghan Markle is poised to release her memoir, it appears that her career is taking a significant step forward, but this move could further strain her relationship with the Royal Family. Richard Fitzwilliams, a royal commentator, expressed concerns that her memoir could generate substantial revenue, potentially prolonging or exacerbating the existing rift.
He noted that Meghan’s reported four-book deal with Random House, if all publications focus on criticisms of the royal family, could create lasting tensions within the monarchy. While it may bring significant financial benefits in the short term, the long-term consequences remain uncertain.