Keyamo Slams Atiku Over “Insensitive” PDP Exit During Mourning Week
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN) , has strongly criticized Atiku Abubakar over his decision to resign from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) just one day after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari .
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Keyamo said:
“Your Excellency, while I acknowledge your constitutional right to change parties, releasing your resignation during this week of mourning shows poor judgment.”
He accused Atiku of trying to steal public attention at a time when the nation should be united in grief.
“This act clearly attempts to shift focus from a solemn occasion to yourself,” he added.
Keyamo also accused Atiku of lacking empathy:
“With all due respect, your obsession with the presidency knows no sympathy or sensitivity.”
Minister Warns Against Unlawful Use of Nigerian Coat of Arms
Beyond the timing, Keyamo raised legal concerns about Atiku’s continued use of the Nigerian Coat of Arms in personal and political correspondence.
He cited the Flag and Coat of Arms Act (Cap. F30, LFN 2004) , stating that Atiku—having left federal office over 18 years ago—has no legal right to use the national symbol.
“It is both morally and legally wrong to use the Coat of Arms outside official government service.”
“This borders on impersonation,” Keyamo warned.
He stressed that as a member of the Inner Bar and a cabinet minister, he has a duty to uphold Nigeria’s laws and protect their sanctity.
Atiku Resigns From PDP, Joins ADC Coalition
Atiku officially resigned from the PDP through a letter dated July 14, 2025 , addressed to the party chairman of Jada 1 Ward in Adamawa State .
In the letter, he stated:
“It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognising irreconcilable differences and a departure from our founding ideals.”
His resignation marks his third exit from the PDP since 1999.
- First: Left in 2007 to join the Action Congress
- Second: Switched to APC in 2015 before returning to PDP in 2017
- Now: Officially part of the new African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition
Atiku joins other opposition figures like Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai , and Rauf Aregbesola under the ADC banner, with David Mark serving as interim national chairman.
Atiku’s Move Part of Opposition Realignment Ahead of 2027
Political analysts see Atiku’s resignation as a major step in the ongoing opposition realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections .
He is now part of a growing movement led by the ADC platform , which aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) .
The ADC includes:
- Former governors
- Ex-ministers
- Veteran lawmakers
They are positioning themselves as the credible alternative to Tinubu’s administration, especially among voters disillusioned by economic hardship and rising insecurity.
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