The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has dismissed the growing alliance among opposition parties, describing their approach as outdated and deceptive.
Speaking during a recent television interview, Keyamo criticized what he called the recycled political tactics of opposition figures, saying they are no longer effective in today’s political climate.
According to him, Nigerians have become more politically aware and are no longer swayed by what he described as “expired 419 formats.”
“I know them very well, and they know us very well. These tactics they are using are expired. They’ve been used over the years and Nigerians can no longer be deceived,” he said.
Keyamo accused opposition parties of misrepresenting facts, particularly by highlighting isolated economic issues and presenting them as evidence of national failure.
He admitted that inflation remains a challenge but maintained that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making progress. He pointed to improvements in government revenue, foreign reserves, and currency stability as signs of economic recovery.
“Inflation is coming down. The Naira is steady. Foreign reserves are rising. These are signs of a growing economy. In time, these gains will translate into more jobs and better living conditions for Nigerians,” he said.
He also argued that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains strong and well-positioned ahead of future elections.
“You say the opposition is getting stronger—does that mean the APC is getting weaker? Not at all. We still have the structures, the numbers, and the experience,” he said.
Keyamo also criticized some prominent opposition leaders, accusing them of living extravagant lifestyles while claiming to fight for the common man.
“I saw one of them speaking passionately about rescuing Nigerians, yet this same person has 500 cars in his garage. Nigerians are not fools,” he added.
Reacting to reports of a planned alliance between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Keyamo said such a merger would likely fail. He argued that the factors that made Obi popular in the last election—such as regional sentiment, religious alignment, and youth support—would be weakened if he plays a secondary role.
“If they make Obi a running mate, two of the three major reasons behind his support base will collapse,” he said.
Keyamo concluded by reaffirming the APC’s strong support in the northern region, citing loyalty to the party and the enduring influence of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“We still have the structures in the North. Buhari’s supporters are still with us, and that base remains solid,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the party’s future, saying, “I’ve been accurate with political predictions in the past, and I can tell you we’re even more prepared this time.”
