The  (PDP) has criticised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, , over his comments regarding the party’s affirmation of former President  as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

Naija News reports that Keyamo had earlier urged Jonathan to publicly distance himself from reports linking him to a presidential ticket allegedly being promoted by a political group. The minister made the call in a statement shared via his 𝕏 handle, describing the development as a “bizarre comedy” and criticising those behind it for dragging the former president into what he termed a political charade.

He further argued that it was inappropriate for individuals who are not recognised political actors to claim they had offered Jonathan a presidential ticket.

“This is some kind of bizarre comedy taken too far by supposedly grown adults and some names that were actually in the corridors of power at some point in this country,” Keyamo said.

However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, the PDP said the minister lacked the moral authority to advise Jonathan on political matters. The opposition party maintained that reactions from the ruling  (APC) reflect growing anxiety over increasing support for Jonathan.

“The desperation and anxiety that have increasingly characterised reactions from the ruling APC to the growing national clamour for President Jonathan’s return to leadership make it necessary to set the record straight,” the statement read.

The PDP described it as ironic that Keyamo, who built his public image through criticism of governments and public office holders, now appears uncomfortable with opposition political activities.

“It is rather ironic that Festus Keyamo, a man who built his public profile through relentless criticism of governments and public office holders, now seeks to deny others the very democratic space he once occupied,” the party stated.

The PDP also urged the minister to focus on challenges facing the aviation sector and broader governance issues, including economic hardship, insecurity, inflation, and unemployment, rather than commenting on opposition politics.

“Nigerians are far more interested in solutions to the worsening economic hardship, persistent insecurity, declining purchasing power and the growing insecurity across the country than in unsolicited political advice directed at President Jonathan,” the statement added.

The party further argued that many Nigerians still view Jonathan’s administration positively, citing what it described as political stability, economic growth, and improved investor confidence during his tenure.

According to the PDP, this perception explains ongoing calls from some quarters for the former president to return to office.

“It is therefore not surprising that many citizens are prevailing on him to return to power to offer stability, national healing and, more importantly, to reduce the political temperature of the country,” the statement noted.

The PDP maintained that citizens have the constitutional right to support candidates of their choice without intimidation or interference, adding that as the 2027 elections approach, Nigerians will prioritise leadership, competence, and national development over political attacks.

“No amount of intimidation, blackmail or scaremongering can prevent Nigerians from freely expressing their political preferences or supporting leaders they believe can help reposition the country,” the statement concluded.