Atiku’s Aide Criticizes Keyamo Over Comments on 2027 Election Exclusion

Paul Ibe, an aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has responded sharply to comments made by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Keyamo suggested that it would not matter if Atiku was excluded from the presidential ballot in 2027. Ibe called this remark an attempt to undermine the democratic rights of Nigerians.

In a Facebook post, Ibe argued that excluding a major political challenger like Atiku would damage public trust in the electoral process. He emphasized that the decision about who runs for president should be left to the voters, not the ruling party.

Ibe challenged Keyamo’s comments, questioning why the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would be comfortable with an election without Atiku if they believed in President Bola Tinubu’s abilities. He insisted that both candidates should have the chance to present their cases to the public.

Looking ahead to the January 16, 2027 election, Ibe expressed confidence that Atiku would gain significant support. He stated that his team plans to convert this support into votes, warning that a loss for Tinubu could spell trouble for the APC.

In his post, Ibe used an Igbo proverb to caution Keyamo and the APC about ignoring voters’ wishes. He warned that a party that does not listen to its constituents should be ready for the consequences on election day.

He concluded by asserting that Atiku’s supporters are committed to defending their right to vote and will do so through lawful means. Ibe also made a personal attack on Keyamo, suggesting that he and his supporters deserve harsh consequences.