Atiku PDP resignation controversy draws fire as Minister Keyamo blasts timing and misuse of Coat of Arms amid national mourning for Muhammadu Buhari
Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, has criticised Atiku Abubakar for announcing his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the nation’s official mourning of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
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Atiku, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, made his exit from the opposition party public on Wednesday. The move sparked controversy, particularly due to its timing.
Keyamo reacted sharply in a statement via his verified X account.
He said, “Your Excellency, @atiku… 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.”
He accused Atiku of prioritising political ambition over national empathy. Keyamo also faulted Atiku for allegedly using the Nigerian Coat of Arms in his resignation letter, warning that it is both morally and legally questionable.
“Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act, Cap. F30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, makes this an offence,” Keyamo wrote.
He urged the former Vice President to desist from what he called a misleading representation of authority.
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The Atiku PDP resignation controversy has added fresh tension to the political climate, especially as the country grapples with the loss of a former leader.
