Keyamo Urges Jonathan to Reject Proxy Presidential Ticket

Nigeria’s political space was stirred this weekend after Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo urged former President Goodluck Jonathan to firmly reject reports linking him to a proxy presidential ticket.

Keyamo, writing on his X account, dismissed the development as a “bizarre comedy” and accused unnamed political actors of dragging Jonathan into what he described as a charade. He argued that offering a presidential ticket through unofficial channels undermines democratic credibility.

According to the minister, those behind the move lack legitimacy, as they are not registered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He stressed that no group outside the electoral framework should attempt to hand a presidential ticket to a former head of state.

“This is some kind of bizarre comedy taken too far by supposedly grown adults and some names that were actually in the corridors of power at some point in this country,” Keyamo wrote. He added that the attempt was “a journey to nowhere” and risked tarnishing Jonathan’s reputation.

Keyamo called on Jonathan to issue a clear statement distancing himself from the reports. He warned that silence could fuel speculation about Jonathan’s political future and reopen debates about his administration, particularly the controversies that led to his defeat in 2015.

“For the sake of his global image, President Goodluck Jonathan must immediately issue a strong ‘No, thank you’ statement,” Keyamo advised. He cautioned that failure to act could revive memories of the “clueless” campaign that ended Jonathan’s presidency.

The minister’s intervention highlights growing tension around Nigeria’s 2026 political season. While Jonathan has not publicly commented on the matter, Keyamo’s remarks reflect concerns within government circles about the credibility of political processes and the dangers of proxy arrangements.

Observers note that Jonathan remains a respected figure internationally, often engaged in peace missions across Africa. Keyamo’s warning suggests that any association with questionable political maneuvers could undermine that standing.

The call also underscores the importance of transparency in Nigeria’s electoral system. As the country prepares for another election cycle, Keyamo’s comments serve as a reminder that political legitimacy must come through established institutions, not informal groups.

Jonathan’s response, or lack thereof, will likely shape public perception in the coming weeks. For now, Keyamo has placed the former president at the center of a debate about credibility, image, and the future of Nigeria’s democratic process.