2027 Presidential Election: PDP Slams Keyamo, Says He Lacks Moral Ground to Counsel Jonathan

The Peoples Democratic Party has launched a scathing attack on Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, criticizing his recent comments in which he urged former President Goodluck Jonathan to decline the party's presidential nomination for the 2027 election.

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In a statement issued on Tuesday, the PDP accused Keyamo of attempting to meddle in the party's internal affairs and questioned the moral authority that enables him to offer political counsel to Jonathan.

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The party opted to respond to Keyamo's remarks due to the growing anxiety within the ruling All Progressives Congress regarding the increasing calls from some Nigerians for Jonathan's return to national leadership.

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The PDP found it ironic that Keyamo, a former public interest lawyer and activist known for challenging governments and defending democratic principles, would criticize the party's stance on Jonathan's nomination.

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The party noted that Keyamo's history of relentless criticism of governments and public office holders makes his current stance all the more ironic, as he now seeks to deny others the democratic space he once occupied.

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The PDP argued that Nigerians remember Keyamo as a vocal critic of those in power and questioned why he now appears uncomfortable with citizens and political parties exercising their constitutional rights.

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The party urged Keyamo to focus on his ministerial responsibilities rather than commenting on opposition politics, suggesting that he should devote his energy to addressing the challenges confronting the aviation sector.

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Instead of interfering in the PDP's internal affairs, the party stated that Keyamo would do well to address the numerous challenges facing the aviation sector and the wider administration.

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The PDP contended that Nigerians are more concerned about economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and declining living standards than political commentary directed at Jonathan.

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The party criticized the performance of the APC-led administration, alleging that the country has experienced worsening economic conditions, infrastructure challenges, and governance concerns under the ruling party.

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In defense of Jonathan, the PDP stated that many Nigerians continue to view his administration positively, citing political stability, economic growth, and improved investor confidence during his tenure.

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The party noted that the obvious nervousness surrounding Jonathan's candidacy is understandable, given that his administration was marked by political stability, sustained economic growth, and increased foreign investor confidence.

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The PDP maintained that no amount of intimidation or political pressure will prevent Nigerians from supporting leaders of their choice, as citizens seek competent, unifying, and selfless leadership capable of addressing the nation's challenges.

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The party concluded by advising Keyamo to channel his attention toward helping the Federal Government tackle pressing national issues rather than offering unsolicited advice to the former president.