Spokesperson Raises Concerns Over Equal Treatment, Security Protocols and Release of CCTV Footage
The Peter Obi Media Office has responded to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over the recent controversy surrounding the NDC presidential candidate’s transit through the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Peter Obi Media Office, Idris Zekeri Jnr, the media office disputed Keyamo’s account of the events and accused the minister of presenting a version of the incident that differed from what Obi had earlier narrated.
According to the statement, Peter Obi does not have police or Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel attached to him in Abuja, despite being entitled to security protection as a leading opposition figure. It also denied claims that a police officer serves as his driver.
The media office maintained that the incident cited by the minister was different from the one Obi referenced during a recent interview, arguing that the former Anambra State governor was not present during the event highlighted by Keyamo.
It further questioned what it described as a pattern of actions directed at vehicles associated with Obi, asking whether repeated incidents suggested selective treatment based on his political status.
The statement also challenged claims that the vehicle remained improperly parked for about 30 minutes, insisting that the entire sequence of events lasted approximately five minutes.
According to the media office, several other vehicles were reportedly in the same area without being clamped, raising questions about whether airport regulations were being applied equally.
The spokesperson further cited previous airport incidents involving other high-profile individuals, including former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole and Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), questioning why similar public statements and CCTV footage were not released in those cases.
The statement also expressed concern over the publication of CCTV footage showing Obi’s movements, arguing that releasing such material could pose security risks to a prominent opposition figure.
It questioned whether similar footage involving other presidential candidates or senior government officials would have been made public.
The Peter Obi Media Office also criticised what it described as the tone of the minister’s public comments, alleging that they conveyed hostility toward Obi and raising concerns about the neutrality of state institutions.
The statement concluded by questioning the minister’s decision to direct the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to take action against Obi, arguing that issues relating to alleged infractions should follow due legal process.
According to the media office, the controversy extends beyond the issue of a clamped vehicle and touches on broader concerns about equal treatment under the law, the security of opposition figures, institutional neutrality and democratic standards.
As of the time of publication, the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has publicly defended his position regarding the airport incident.
IBN News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more reactions emerge.
