Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has dismissed former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s 2027 campaign promises as a desperate and theatrical move.
Keyamo spoke on his X account on Friday, August 28, 2026, after Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, promised to reopen Nigeria’s land borders and develop southern ports if elected.
“Atiku Abubakar is going for broke, like in a gambling game; he is throwing everything in, even if they don’t make sense.
“It is his last attempt (according to him), so this is expected. It spices up the race, and we are loving it. Nice try, but unfortunately for Atiku, Nigerians have since crossed the Rubicon.”
The post drew strong reactions online, with several Nigerians defending Atiku and criticising Keyamo’s comments.
@muhd_tofa01 wrote: “Over 130 million Nigerians facing multidimensional poverty with the middle class shrinking by the day. Which Rubicon are you talking about, Festus? What letter in the word ‘Shame’ don’t you have? Shame should be catching you guys for God’s sake.”
@DrMShitu said Atiku had studied the government’s failures and was only revealing part of his plans to improve the economy.
@bizcomtec questioned why the ruling camp appeared concerned about Atiku’s moves, saying Nigerians wanted a credible alternative after years of hardship.
@EOnodugo said Nigerians wanted lasting solutions to their problems rather than temporary palliatives.
Others, including @Georgeogbonna80, @KabiruMuazuMuh1 and @DLohoudedo37198, also joined the exchange.
Meanwhile, the Presidency, through Special Adviser Sunday Dare, opposed Atiku’s call to restore fuel subsidy, warning that selling crude to local refineries at preferential prices would “punch a hole in the Federation Account” and could encourage cross-border fuel smuggling.
