Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo has taken a fresh swipe at former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, declaring that only young Nigerians unfamiliar with his political history could be misled by his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The minister made the remark on Wednesday, October 14, in response to Atiku’s comments on Nigeria’s rising cost of living and worsening insecurity, setting the stage for another heated political exchange ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Keyamo accused Atiku of hypocrisy, arguing that the former vice-president should also answer questions about the record of the administration in which he served under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He specifically referred to the liquidation of Nigeria Airways in September 2004 and the outstanding pensions and gratuities owed to former employees of the national carrier.
The aviation minister further claimed that the Tinubu administration had approved and released ₦36 billion to address the outstanding entitlements of affected workers. According to Keyamo, some beneficiaries had started receiving payment notifications, while the workers’ union had acknowledged the intervention.
Atiku, however, has been raising concerns about the economic pressure facing ordinary Nigerians, highlighting the difficulties many families experience in paying for food, healthcare, transportation and other essential needs. He has also expressed concern over insecurity, arguing that Nigerians should not have to battle hunger and fear at the same time. The former vice-president urged eligible citizens to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and use their votes to demand change.
The exchange has added fresh heat to Nigeria’s political conversation as parties and prominent figures begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. While Keyamo is challenging Atiku’s record in government, Atiku is focusing attention on the hardship and insecurity confronting Nigerians today.
With both sides making their positions clear, the debate is likely to continue as the election season approaches. Ultimately, Nigerians will be looking beyond political exchanges for concrete answers on the economy, security, jobs and the rising cost of living.
