The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Festus Keyamo (SAN), on Sunday, praised residents of the Federal Capital Territory for exercising their franchise in the recently concluded area council elections.
Keyamo also cautioned individuals and groups against claiming to speak on behalf of the nation without a proper mandate.
Reacting to post-election commentary, Keyamo made his position clear in a terse post on his official X handle.
He stated, “The real Nigerians have now spoken for themselves; not those who pose for cameras in front of the National Assembly, claiming to speak for Nigerians; not some funny journalists who don’t know the polling units in their villages, seated comfortably in some studios and claiming to speak for Nigerians; and not the clueless opposition claiming to speak for Nigerians.”
He further stressed the importance of distinguishing personal opinion from national representation, saying: “Everyone or any group have a right to their opinions, but never claim to speak for ‘Nigerians’ when there is no yardstick to ascertain your claim.”
Keyamo also advised that individuals and organisations clarify their positions when commenting publicly:
“When you make your point, clearly state it is your own belief or the position of your NGO or organisation, but do not pose as some Voltron defending majority of ‘Nigerians’. That is just my point.”
PUNCH Online reports that the FCT area council elections, held on Saturday across the six councils — Abuja Municipal Area Council, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali — recorded largely peaceful voting and turnout, with results beginning to be collated and declared on Sunday.
The polls, which determine local leadership, are widely seen as a barometer of political strength in the capital territory.
