Keyamo Challenges Atiku Over Nigeria’s Economic Hardship.
Keyamo Challenges Atiku Over Nigeria’s Economic Hardship.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of hypocrisy over his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.Keyamo made the accusation in a post on his X handle while responding to Atiku’s comments about the economic difficulties and insecurity currently affecting Nigerians.
Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election, had criticised the Tinubu administration over the rising cost of living and insecurity. He said many Nigerian families were struggling to afford basic necessities, while citizens continued to live with concerns over kidnapping and other attacks.In response, Keyamo focused on Atiku’s record during his time as Vice President under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The minister specifically referred to the liquidation of Nigeria Airways in September 2004. According to Keyamo, the decision resulted in thousands of workers losing their jobs, while many former employees were also left without their pensions and gratuities.Keyamo argued that the Tinubu administration is now addressing the financial difficulties faced by former Nigeria Airways workers and their families. He said President Tinubu recently approved and released N36 billion to settle outstanding payments owed to the affected workers.
The minister added that some former workers had already received the payments and praised the President for the intervention.Keyamo further accused Atiku of taking credit for the achievements of the Obasanjo administration when convenient while distancing himself from decisions made during the same government when faced with criticism.
He described Atiku’s criticism of the current administration as an attempt to gain political advantage ahead of the 2027 presidential election.The exchange comes as political activities and debates over the performance of the Tinubu administration intensify ahead of the 2027 general election.
