Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), calling the move poorly timed and accusing Atiku of misusing Nigeria’s Coat of Arms.
In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, Keyamo said Atiku’s decision to publicize his resignation during the nation’s mourning period for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, was “insensitive.”
“Though it is your constitutional right to change political affiliations, releasing your resignation letter during a national mourning is a blatant attempt to draw attention to yourself,” Keyamo stated.
Atiku’s letter, dated July 14, 2025, and addressed to his local ward chairman in Adamawa State, cited “irreconcilable differences” with the PDP and disappointment in the party’s deviation from its founding principles. The letter was shared publicly by his media team.
Keyamo also condemned Atiku’s use of the Federal Coat of Arms in the letter, calling it both “morally and legally wrong.” He referenced Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act (Cap. F30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004), which prohibits unauthorized use of national symbols and warned that such actions amount to impersonation.
“Using the Coat of Arms in private or political communications, when you’ve not held public office for over 18 years, creates legal and symbolic confusion,” Keyamo warned.
He concluded by reaffirming his duty to uphold the constitution as a federal cabinet member and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
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