Keyamo Criticizes Atiku Over Use of Nigeria’s Coat of Arms in PDP Resignation Letter

Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for utilizing the country’s coat of arms in his resignation letter from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Keyamo expressed his views on the social media platform X on Wednesday, following Atiku’s official departure from the PDP. He argued that it is both morally and legally inappropriate for Atiku to employ the Federal Government’s Coat of Arms in his personal or political correspondence, especially since he has not held a government position for over 18 years.

Referring to Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act, Cap. F30 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, Keyamo asserted that Atiku’s actions constitute an offense.

Moreover, Keyamo remarked that Atiku’s choice to announce his resignation during a period of national mourning for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who was laid to rest on Tuesday, reflects a troubling fixation on his ongoing presidential aspirations, lacking compassion or understanding.

“It is both morally and legally wrong to continue using the Coat of Arms of the Federal Government in your private or political communications after you have ceased to be a government functionary for more than 18 years. This is clearly outlined as an offense in Section 6 of the Flag and Coat of Arms Act,” he stated.

He further emphasized that such actions could mislead the public into believing that former officials are acting on behalf of the government, which could lead to significant confusion if all ex-officials were to use the Coat of Arms in their personal or political matters. “As a Cabinet member and a member of the Inner Bar, I have a responsibility to uphold our laws and constitution. I urge you to act accordingly,” he concluded on X.