The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for his remarks concerning former President Goodluck Jonathan and the possibility of his participation in the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP argued that Keyamo is not in a position to lecture Jonathan or dictate who political parties should support ahead of the next general election.
The opposition party maintained that the minister’s comments reveal the unease within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over the growing public enthusiasm surrounding calls for Jonathan to return to national leadership.
According to the PDP, it is contradictory for Keyamo, who rose to prominence as a vocal advocate for accountability and democratic freedoms, to now appear uncomfortable with political participation and public expression by citizens and opposition groups.
The party recalled that the minister built much of his reputation by challenging authorities, speaking against perceived wrongdoing and pursuing legal actions aimed at protecting democratic values and constitutional principles.
The statement noted that many Nigerians remember Keyamo as someone who frequently questioned those in power and defended the rights of ordinary citizens. It therefore expressed disappointment that he now seems unconcerned about what it described as efforts to weaken opposition politics while simultaneously criticising lawful political activities undertaken by rival parties.
The PDP advised the aviation minister to focus on issues directly affecting his ministry and the broader administration rather than involving himself in matters relating to the internal decisions of another political organisation.
It stressed that the concerns occupying the minds of Nigerians are not political attacks against Jonathan but the mounting economic and security challenges confronting the country. The party cited rising living costs, widespread unemployment, shrinking purchasing power and persistent insecurity as matters demanding urgent attention from government officials.
Furthermore, the PDP accused the APC administration of failing to adequately address major national problems. It argued that worsening economic conditions, infrastructure deficiencies and recurring allegations of corruption should be the priority of government representatives rather than commentary on opposition affairs.
The party also suggested that the reaction to discussions surrounding Jonathan’s potential candidacy demonstrates the ruling party’s apprehension. It asserted that many citizens continue to view Jonathan’s tenure favourably, pointing to what it described as a period marked by relative stability, economic expansion, stronger investor confidence and greater national inclusiveness.
According to the PDP, a growing number of Nigerians believe that Jonathan possesses the experience and temperament needed to help reduce political tensions, foster national unity and restore confidence in governance.
The opposition party further rejected any attempt to discourage citizens from openly supporting candidates of their choice. It emphasised that democratic governance guarantees freedom of political association, expression and participation for all Nigerians.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the PDP stated that public attention is increasingly focused on the search for capable, visionary and unifying leadership capable of addressing the country’s numerous challenges.
The party concluded by urging Keyamo to concentrate on advising the APC-led government on how to improve the welfare of citizens and resolve pressing national concerns. It argued that criticism regarding poor governance should be directed toward those currently in power, maintaining that the APC’s record since assuming office in 2015 remains open to public scrutiny and evaluation.
