The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Chief Festus Keyamo, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) barely a day after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Keyamo accused Atiku of trying to divert national attention from the mourning period to himself, showcasing his “obsession with perennial Presidential ambition” that “knows no sympathy or empathy”.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Keyamo condemned Atiku’s decision to resign barely a day after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Your Excellency, whilst I acknowledge that it is within your constitutional right to change political parties at any time you may wish, releasing your letter of resignation from the PDP during this week of the mourning of our immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, is clearly an attempt to draw the spotlight away from such a solemn occasion and direct it on yourself.
“With the greatest respect to you, this clearly demonstrates that your obsession with your perennial Presidential ambition knows no sympathy or empathy,” Keyamo wrote.
Keyamo also raised concerns about Atiku’s continued use of the Nigerian Coat of Arms in his private communications, despite not being a government functionary for over 18 years.
“It is both morally and legally wrong to continue to use the Coat of Arms of the Federal Government in your private or political communications when you stopped being a functionary of the Federal Government more than 18 years ago,” he said.
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The minister citied Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act, Cap. F30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
He warned that such usage “borders on impersonation,” stressing his duty “as a cabinet member and a member of the Inner Bar to protect our laws and constitution.”
Atiku formally announced his resignation in a letter dated July 14, 2025, addressed to the PDP chairman in Jada 1 Ward, Adamawa State.
He cited “irreconcilable differences” with the party’s current trajectory, which he believed diverges from its foundational principles.
Atiku expressed gratitude for the opportunities afforded him during his time in the party, including serving two full terms as Vice President and being a Presidential candidate twice.
Atiku’s resignation is believed to be part of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He has joined a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside other key opposition figures such as Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The coalition aims to unseat President Bola Tinubu.
Keyamo argued, borders on impersonation and is both morally and legally wrong, citing Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act.
*Atiku’s History of Party Defections*
This marks Atiku’s third defection from the PDP. Over the years, he has moved across political parties, contesting on various platforms.
