2027 Presidency: You don’t have moral right to advise Jonathan — PDP tells Keyamo
PDP Criticizes Keyamo for Advisory to Jonathan on 2027 Presidential Bid
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned comments made by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to decline the party’s presidential nomination for the 2027 election.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the PDP accused Keyamo of overstepping by trying to influence internal party matters and questioned his ethical standing to offer such political guidance to Jonathan.
While the PDP noted it could have overlooked Keyamo’s remarks, it chose to respond due to perceived anxiety within the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding growing public calls for Jonathan’s return to leadership.
The party pointed to the irony of Keyamo’s critique, given his reputation as a public interest lawyer and activist who has historically opposed governmental authority while championing democratic values.
“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 PDP stated.
The party further questioned Keyamo’s discomfort with citizens and political organizations exercising their rights and suggested that he focus on his ministerial duties rather than opposition dynamics.
“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 continued.
The PDP maintained that voters are more focused on pressing issues such as economic hardship, insecurity, and unemployment than on political commentary regarding Jonathan.
Additionally, the party criticized the performance of the APC-led government, claiming that the country has faced worsening economic conditions, infrastructure issues, and governance problems since the current administration took office.
In defending Jonathan, the PDP asserted that many Nigerians remember his presidency positively, citing political stability, economic growth, and increased investor confidence during his tenure.
“The obvious nervousness that has greeted President Jonathan’s candidacy is understandable, as 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 remarked.
The opposition party emphasized that no intimidation or political pressure would deter Nigerians from supporting their preferred leaders. As the nation approaches the next election cycle, the PDP noted that citizens are increasingly seeking “competent, unifying, and selfless leadership” to tackle the nation’s challenges.
In conclusion, the PDP urged Keyamo to redirect his focus toward addressing the pressing issues facing the Federal Government, rather than offering unsolicited advice to the former president.
