Keyamo Slams Peter Obi, Kwankwaso: ‘They Think They Can Blackmail Everyone

According to Ireporter Online, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised prominent opposition politicians for staging a protest in Abuja against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing them of attempting to blackmail the nation over the electoral body’s decision regarding the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Keyamo made the remarks on Wednesday while responding to a demonstration tagged “Save Our Democracy” held in the Federal Capital Territory. The protest featured notable figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal.

During the demonstration, participants carried banners of the ADC and called for the protection of democratic institutions. The protest followed INEC’s decision to de-recognise the leadership of the party headed by former Senate President David Mark.

In a post on (formerly Twitter), Keyamo questioned the rationale behind the protest and criticised the opposition leaders. He asked whether the survival of democracy should hinge on recognising a single faction of one of Nigeria’s 21 registered political parties.

Keyamo also highlighted the faction’s limited electoral influence, noting that it failed to secure any council seats in the recent FCT elections. He further suggested that the protesters were trying to circumvent legal processes through public pressure, asserting that democracy should not mean that media narratives override judicial procedures.

The minister concluded by accusing the opposition figures of attempting to manipulate public opinion, stating, “These fellows think they can blackmail everyone to do their bidding at all cost. Unfortunately for them, Nigerians are not so gullible.”