WorldStage— Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo has strongly condemned former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for repeatedly calling President Bola Tinubu by his first name, “Bola,” during an opposition press briefing in Abuja.
Atiku made the remarks while addressing journalists in Abuja under the banner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.
Keyamo labeled the habit disrespectful and unbecoming of a former national leader.
The Minister expressed deep disappointment in the opposition leader’s choice of words, stating that such a casual reference to the occupant of the nation’s highest office undermines the institutional respect vital to Nigeria’s democracy.
Keyamo argued that political differences should never serve as an excuse to discard established protocols and mutual respect.
“It is highly regrettable to witness a statesman of Atiku Abubakar’s standing display such a glaring lack of respect for the office of the President.
“Repeatedly addressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as ‘Bola’ during a formal press briefing is not just a breach of official protocol; it reveals a deeper undercurrent of bitterness and condescension.
“In our African culture and standard political engagement, respect for authority and senior leadership is fundamental,” Keyamo stated.
The Minister further asserted that Atiku’s tone reflected frustration over his past electoral defeats, rather than constructive opposition.
Keyamo urged opposition figures to focus their energies on policy-driven criticism instead of resorting to subtle personal slights that diminish the dignity of public discourse.
He emphasized that the presidency represents the entire nation and must be treated with appropriate reverence regardless of partisan divides.
Atiku’s press conference in Abuja had touched heavily on national issues and the political landscape ahead of future electoral cycles.
However, the repetitive use of the President’s first name quickly shifted the spotlight away from the policy arguments onto the ethics of political communication in Nigeria.
Supporters of the former Vice-President have dismissed Keyamo’s criticisms, countering that political figures often address peers familiarly in robust democracies.
However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) loyalists have rallied behind Keyamo, maintaining that words matter and that maintaining public respect for national institutions remains non-negotiable.
The minister urged political figures to maintain institutional respect regardless of party divisions or upcoming elections.
The exchange highlights growing hostility between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition heavy-heads as early posturing for the 2027 general elections intensifies.
Allies of the former vice-president have frequently criticized current federal policies, maintaining that aggressive political opposition is necessary to challenge the administration’s direction.
