A senior aide to former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has cautioned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over his criticism of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its members. Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar, responded to Keyamo’s comments, which came after Peter Obi defected to the ADC.
Keyamo had warned the ADC’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is monitoring the party’s activities, stating that there is no room for the ADC to maneuver. Shaibu countered that Keyamo’s language was unbecoming of a minister and that he should not expect to be treated with kid gloves after criticizing Atiku, Obi, and the ADC.
In a statement, Shaibu emphasized that respect is reciprocal and that Keyamo’s provocative comments would not be met with silence. He noted that Keyamo’s behavior was inconsistent with the decorum expected of a public official, adding that the minister’s tendency to personalize issues and use insults would not be tolerated.
The exchange between Shaibu and Keyamo highlights the ongoing tensions between the APC and the ADC, as well as the personal dynamics at play in Nigerian politics. The ADC has been gaining prominence since Obi’s defection, and the APC has been keen to respond to the perceived threat.
The developments come as Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve ahead of future elections. The ADC, which has positioned itself as a viable alternative to the APC and other major parties, is likely to face increased scrutiny and criticism from its opponents. As the political climate becomes more charged, officials and party representatives will be under pressure to maintain a level of decorum and respect in their public discourse.