Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent trip to Nigeria has reignited tensions within the British royal family. Despite having stepped back from their official duties in 2020, the couple’s activities during their visit bore striking similarities to those typically undertaken by working royals.
The couple’s itinerary included a reception with the Chief of Defence Staff, visits to schools and charities, and a meeting with wounded soldiers and disabled individuals. Meghan Markle even co-hosted an event with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the director general of the World Trade Organisation. The couple’s speeches and overall demeanor, as described by author and royal expert Tom Quinn, gave the impression that they were still fully engaged in their former roles.
This behavior has reportedly incensed Prince William and King Charles, who are said to be furious that the couple is attempting to operate outside of the established royal protocol. Royal expert Quinn believes that the trip was a sign that Harry and Meghan are ‘going rogue’ and potentially seeking to profit from their association with the monarchy.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has stated that the UK government was not involved in arranging or facilitating Harry and Meghan’s activities in Nigeria, emphasizing that they were visiting in a private capacity. However, the couple’s actions have nonetheless raised concerns within the royal family, who are now considering how to respond to this latest challenge to their authority.
