A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Turaki has criticised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, saying he lacks the moral authority to advise former President Goodluck Jonathan on the 2027 presidential election.
The PDP’s reaction followed comments by Keyamo dismissing the party’s endorsement of Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election. The minister had described the move as a “bizarre comedy” and urged Jonathan to publicly reject the endorsement to protect his reputation.
Responding in a statement issued on Tuesday night, the PDP accused Keyamo of interfering in the party’s internal affairs and attempting to undermine the democratic rights of opposition parties.
The party argued that it was ironic for Keyamo, who built his public profile as a vocal critic of governments and public officials, to now oppose others exercising similar democratic freedoms.
“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 statement said.
The PDP further claimed that the strong reaction from Keyamo and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) reflected growing concern over what it described as increasing public support for Jonathan’s possible return to power.
According to the party, the aviation minister should focus on addressing challenges facing the aviation sector and the broader issues confronting Nigerians, including economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining purchasing power.
“A minister who could not effectively implement a simple cashless policy is not the best person to offer advice to a former President,” the PDP stated.
Defending Jonathan’s record in office, the opposition party maintained that Nigeria experienced political stability, economic growth, improved investor confidence and greater national inclusion during his administration.
The PDP said many Nigerians were calling for Jonathan’s return because they believe he can provide stability, national healing and reduce political tensions across the country.
The party also insisted that no amount of intimidation or political pressure would prevent Nigerians from supporting leaders of their choice ahead of the 2027 elections.
