The opposition Peoples Democratic Party has taken a swipe at the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over his comments urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to reject the party’s presidential nomination for the 2027 election.
In a statement on Tuesday, the PDP accused Keyamo of attempting to interfere in the internal affairs of the party and questioned his moral authority to offer political advice to Jonathan.
The party said it would ordinarily have ignored the minister’s remarks but decided to respond because of what it described as growing anxiety within the ruling All Progressives Congress over increasing calls by some Nigerians for Jonathan’s return to national leadership.
According to the PDP, Keyamo’s criticism of the party’s position was ironic given his history as a public interest lawyer and activist who built his reputation challenging governments and defending democratic principles.
“It is rather ironic that Festus Keyamo, a man who built his public profile through relentless criticism of governments and public office holders, now seeks to deny others the very democratic space he once occupied with such enthusiasm,” the party said.
The PDP argued that Nigerians remember Keyamo as a vocal critic of those in power and questioned why he now appeared uncomfortable with citizens and political parties exercising their constitutional rights.
The party urged the minister to focus on his responsibilities in government rather than commenting on opposition politics.
“Instead of concerning himself with the internal affairs of the PDP, the Minister would do well to devote his energy to addressing the numerous challenges confronting the aviation sector and the wider administration of which he is a part,” the statement said.
The PDP further contended that Nigerians were more concerned about economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining living standards than political commentary directed at Jonathan.
It also criticised the performance of the APC-led administration, alleging that the country had experienced worsening economic conditions, infrastructure challenges and governance concerns under the ruling party.
Defending Jonathan, the PDP said many Nigerians continue to view his administration positively, citing what it described as political stability, economic growth and improved investor confidence during his tenure.
“The obvious nervousness that has greeted President Jonathan’s candidacy is understandable, because Nigerians have not forgotten that under his administration, the country enjoyed political stability, sustained economic growth, increased foreign investor confidence, and a more inclusive national atmosphere,” the party stated.
The opposition party maintained that no amount of intimidation or political pressure would prevent Nigerians from supporting leaders of their choice.
It added that as the country approaches another election cycle, citizens are increasingly seeking “competent, unifying and selfless leadership” capable of addressing the nation’s challenges.
The PDP concluded by advising Keyamo to channel his attention toward helping the Federal Government tackle pressing national issues rather than offering what it described as unsolicited advice to the former president.
