‘Shameful’—Keyamo Roasts Atiku Over PDP Resignation Amid Buhari’s Death

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The minister accused Atiku of poor timing, noting the resignation came just one day after former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death.

In a Wednesday post on X (formerly Twitter), Keyamo expressed his disapproval of Atiku’s resignation from the PDP.

He argued that the timing showed a lack of respect for the national mourning period.

“Your Excellency, whilst I acknowledge that it is within your constitutional right to change political parties at any time you may wish, 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,” Keyamo wrote.

Furthermore, the Aviation Minister suggested that Atiku’s decision reflects his political obsession.

He claimed the former Vice President prioritized personal ambition over national sensitivity.

“With the greatest respect to you, this clearly demonstrates that your obsession with your perennial Presidential ambition knows no sympathy or empathy,” Keyamo added.

Legal Concerns Over Coat of Arms Usage

Additionally, Keyamo raised serious legal concerns about Atiku’s continued use of official government symbols.

The senior lawyer pointed out that Atiku has been using the Nigerian Coat of Arms in private communications despite leaving government service 18 years ago.

“It is both morally and legally wrong to continue to use the Coat of Arms of the Federal Government in your private or political communications when you stopped being a functionary of the Federal Government more than 18 years ago,” he stated.

The minister cited Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act, Cap. F30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

He warned that such usage “borders on impersonation” and stressed his duty as a cabinet member to protect Nigerian laws.

Details of Atiku’s Resignation From PDP

Diaspora Digital Media reported that Atiku formally announced his resignation through a letter dated July 14, 2025.

The letter was addressed to the PDP chairman in Jada 1 Ward, Adamawa State, marking his departure from the party he helped establish.

“It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognising the irreconcilable differences that have emerged,” Atiku wrote. He explained that he found it necessary to leave due to the party’s current direction.

The 78-year-old politician expressed gratitude for his opportunities within the party.

“Serving two full terms as Vice President of Nigeria and being a Presidential candidate twice has been one of the most significant chapters of my life,” he said.

Atiku’s Political Background and Previous Defections

Atiku served as Vice President from 1999 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Subsequently, he became the PDP’s presidential candidate in both 2019 and 2023 elections, losing on both occasions.

This latest resignation marks Atiku’s third defection from the PDP.

Over the years, he has moved across multiple political parties, demonstrating a pattern of political realignment.

Previously, he contested on different platforms including the Action Congress in 2007 and the APC in 2015.

However, he returned to the PDP in 2017 before this recent departure.

Coalition Plans for 2027 Elections

The resignation appears to be part of broader political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku has joined a coalition that includes other prominent opposition figures seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu.

The coalition features notable politicians such as Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Other members include former Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi and ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The group has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their platform. They have appointed former Senate President David Mark as interim national chairman and ex-Osun governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim national secretary.

This development signals intensifying political activities as parties and coalitions prepare for the next electoral cycle.

The timing of Atiku’s resignation from the PDP, however, continues to generate controversy among political observers

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