Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar over his repeated reference to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as “Bola” during a press conference in Abuja.
Keyamo expressed his criticism in a post on his verified X handle, describing Atiku’s manner of addressing the President as “disrespectful and discourteous.”
According to the minister, political differences should not diminish the dignity attached to the office of the President, regardless of disagreements between political figures.
“The continuous reference to President Bola Tinubu by His Excellency, ex-Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, in his press conference earlier as ‘Bola’ is very disrespectful and discourteous,” Keyamo wrote.
He added that Atiku should recognise the importance of according the presidency the dignity it deserves in the interest of the country.
“He should know better that no matter your differences with Mr President, for the sake of the country, that office should be accorded all the dignity it deserves. The tone reeks of pain and bitterness in his heart,” Keyamo said.
The minister’s comments followed Atiku’s press conference in Abuja on Friday, where the former Vice President addressed issues including the rising cost of petrol, government intervention and the economic challenges confronting Nigerians.
During the press conference, Aghv hg v tiku also called on President Tinubu to take immediate steps to reduce the price of petrol and ease the burden on Nigerians.
