Festus Keyamo, Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has strongly criticized the reported endorsement of former President Goodluck Jonathan as the 2027 presidential candidate by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He described the development as a bizarre comedy taken too far.
Keyamo Questions Legitimacy of Endorsement
In a statement, Keyamo faulted the process behind the endorsement, questioning the credibility of those involved and the implications for Nigeria's political landscape. He stated, "This is some kind of bizarre comedy taken too far by supposedly grown adults and some names that were actually in the corridors of power at some point in this country." He further criticized the attempt to project a presidential ticket for Jonathan without his direct involvement, noting that the endorsers are not even registered on INEC's website.
Call for Jonathan to Clarify Position
Keyamo expressed concern over the disregard for Jonathan's reputation and urged him to immediately issue a strong rejection statement. He warned that silence could damage Jonathan's global image and revive negative narratives from his past electoral defeat. Jonathan has not publicly reacted to the endorsement and was absent at the ceremony where his name was announced.
Bala Mohammed Denies VP Slot Rumors
Meanwhile, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed dismissed reports linking him to a possible vice-presidential slot on Jonathan's alleged 2027 ticket. He affirmed that his political focus remains on his senatorial ambition under the APM platform and urged the public to disregard speculation.
The controversy highlights deepening internal disagreements within the PDP as the 2027 general election approaches.
