Kwankwaso asks Atiku to quit 2027 race

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. Photo: X/Atiku

The Nigeria Democratic Congress vice presidential candidate, Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso, has urged African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race.

Kwankwaso made the call while receiving members of the Fulani Farmers Association, who paid him a visit at his Abuja residence.

He said Atiku should instead focus on his traditional responsibilities.

He also cited Atiku’s age and health as reasons for the appeal, urging supporters of the ADC candidate to convince him to step aside from the presidential contest.

The former Kano State governor stated, “Go to the Wazirin of Adamawa’s house and tell him in Fulani that he needs to focus on his traditional title of Wazirin, given his age and health.

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“If Allah grants us success, we will take good care of him, especially since you all come from Adamawa. An apology should be offered to him.”

The appeal came following moves to bring all opposition candidates under one umbrella to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

In April, Atiku said the 2027 presidential election could be his final attempt, citing his age and the stakes involved.

He has contested the presidency several times, including in 2007, 2011, 2019 and 2023, losing each time.

Atiku has remained a strong advocate of restructuring, economic liberalisation and private sector-led growth.

Abdulrahman is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with nearly a decade of professional experience covering political parties, elections, religion, civil society organizations, and the Nigeria Governors Forum. He is also a development and strategic communication expert, skilled at analyzing complex issues and delivering impactful narratives. Abdulrahman’s reporting reflects extensive newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a strong commitment to informative and insightful journalism.

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