ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over his comments advising former President Goodluck Jonathan to decline any presidential nomination being considered for the 2027 elections.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the PDP accused Keyamo of interfering in its internal political processes and questioned his moral standing to lecture Jonathan on political choices.
The party said it would ordinarily have ignored the minister’s remarks but responded due to what it described as growing anxiety within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over increasing calls by some Nigerians for Jonathan’s possible return to national leadership.
“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 consistent critic of those in power, questioning why he now appears uncomfortable with political parties and citizens exercising constitutional freedoms.
It urged the minister to concentrate on his official responsibilities in government rather than engaging in 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 added.
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The party further insisted that Nigerians are more concerned about economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and declining living standards than political debates surrounding Jonathan.
It also criticised the APC-led administration, alleging worsening economic conditions, infrastructure deficits, and governance failures.
Defending Jonathan, the PDP maintained that many Nigerians still view his presidency positively, citing what it described as political stability, economic growth, and improved investor confidence during his tenure.
The party added that public reaction to discussions around Jonathan’s potential return reflects what it called “obvious nervousness” within the political establishment.
“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,” it stated.
The opposition maintained that no political pressure or intimidation would stop Nigerians from supporting leaders of their choice, adding that the 2027 election cycle would be defined by demand for “competent, unifying and selfless leadership.”
It concluded by advising Keyamo to focus on governance challenges facing the country rather than what it described as unsolicited commentary on opposition affairs.