Keyamo Accuses Obi of Hypocrisy Over NFF Incident

Nigeria's Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, has publicly criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), for his recent complaint about the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). Obi claimed that NFF officials prevented him from greeting members of Nigeria's Under-17 female football team at the airport. He shared his experience in a statement on his social media handle, describing it as an example of growing political intolerance in the country.

According to Obi, the incident occurred when he arrived at the airport at 7 a.m. on Monday to catch a flight to Enugu. He spotted the Under-17 girls' team preparing to depart and asked his protocol officer to seek permission for him to greet the players. However, Obi claimed that NFF officials turned down the request, fearing they would lose their jobs if they allowed him to approach the team. This is not the first time Obi has reported being prevented from interacting with athletes; he recalled a similar incident in Uyo on March 25, 2025.

Obi's statement expressed concern about the increasing political intolerance in Nigeria and called for a country where unity and mutual respect take priority over political differences. However, Keyamo questioned Obi's genuine interest in associating with what he described as a success story of President Bola Tinubu's administration. Keyamo noted that Obi frequently criticizes Nigeria but now appears eager to associate himself with the country's achievements.

Keyamo accused Obi of seeking photo opportunities with the players, describing it as hypocritical. In a post on his social media handle, Keyamo wrote: "Mr Peter Obi, in all your public vituperations, you often say things akin to the fact that 'Nigeria is finished'. So, why are you now so anxious to associate with a success story of the country or this government? Just for photo ops? You see the hypocrisy?"

The incident has sparked reactions from various individuals and groups. For instance, Bashir Ahmad responded to Obi's accusation against NFF officials. The NFF has not publicly commented on the matter. Meanwhile, the political landscape in Nigeria remains contentious, with various stakeholders expressing their views on social and political issues.

Keyamo's criticism of Obi highlights the ongoing debate about politics and sports in Nigeria. The Aviation Minister's comments have generated significant attention, with many Nigerians sharing their thoughts on social media. As the country prepares for future elections, the relationship between politics and sports is likely to remain a topic of discussion.

The controversy surrounding Obi's interaction with the Under-17 girls' team has raised questions about the intersection of politics and sports in Nigeria. While some have expressed support for Obi, others have criticized him for his perceived inconsistency. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will impact the country's sports and political landscape.

Key points

• Festus Keyamo accuses Peter Obi of hypocrisy over his complaint about the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
• Obi claimed that NFF officials prevented him from greeting members of Nigeria's Under-17 female football team at the airport.
• Keyamo questioned Obi's interest in associating with what he described as a success story of President Bola Tinubu's administration.