The opposition Peoples Democratic Party has criticized the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over his comments regarding the party’s endorsement of former President Goodluck Jonathan as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said Keyamo lacked the moral authority to advise Jonathan or comment on the internal affairs of the party.
The party described the minister’s remarks as a reflection of what it called the ruling APC’s growing concern over increasing public calls for Jonathan’s return to national leadership.
According to the PDP, it was ironic that Keyamo, who built his reputation through criticism of governments and public officials, now appeared uncomfortable with opposition parties and citizens exercising their democratic rights.
The opposition party argued that the minister should focus on addressing challenges facing the aviation sector and the broader issues confronting the country, including economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and declining living standards.
The PDP also accused the administration of failing to tackle key national problems, claiming that Nigerians were more interested in practical solutions than political commentary directed at opposition figures.
Defending Jonathan’s record in office, the party said many Nigerians still associate his administration with political stability, economic growth, increased investor confidence, and national inclusiveness. It maintained that these factors have contributed to growing calls for the former president to contest the 2027 election.
The party further stated that no amount of intimidation or political pressure would prevent Nigerians from supporting leaders of their choice, stressing that democratic principles guarantee citizens the freedom to express their political preferences.
The PDP urged the minister to channel his efforts toward advising the current administration on governance and economic management, insisting that Nigerians were demanding competent and unifying leadership capable of addressing the country’s challenges.
The statement comes amid increasing political debate over the 2027 presidential election and speculation surrounding potential candidates across Nigeria’s major political parties.
