2027: Keyamo accuses Atiku of agitated depression, calls for mental health support

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo has accused former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of suffering from what he described as “agitated depression,” claiming the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate needs urgent mental health support.

Keyamo made the remarks in a statement on Friday, attributing Atiku’s recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu to alleged bitterness over the outcome of the 2023 presidential election.

The minister claimed Tinubu’s emergence as president had been difficult for Atiku to accept, arguing that their long-standing political rivalry and competing presidential ambitions had contributed to the former vice-president’s alleged frustration.

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Keyamo recalled that Tinubu was governor of Lagos State while Atiku served as vice-president, noting that both politicians pursued presidential ambitions after leaving office in 2007.

He said Tinubu eventually secured the presidency on his first attempt, while Atiku had sought the position for decades.

The minister also cited Ecclesiastes 9:11 in the Bible, arguing that political power was not determined solely by ambition or personal ability.

Keyamo urged Atiku’s associates to offer him support rather than encourage what he described as his recent political outbursts. He also claimed that the former vice-president’s recent public statements could undermine his political support.

However, Keyamo’s comments about Atiku’s mental health were allegations made by the minister. He provided no medical evidence to substantiate the claim that the former vice-president has a mental health condition.