Former Kano State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has urged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race, citing his age and health.
Kwankwaso made the call while receiving members of the Fulani Farmers Association at his residence in Abuja, where he urged supporters of Atiku, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, to persuade him to step aside from the contest.
The former governor also suggested that Atiku should concentrate on his traditional responsibilities as the Wazirin Adamawa rather than pursue another presidential bid.
“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,” Kwankwaso said.
He added that if his political camp eventually succeeds, they would take care of Atiku, particularly because of his connection to Adamawa.
Kwankwaso’s comments come amid renewed political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with opposition politicians and parties continuing discussions over how best to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
Atiku, who has contested the presidency several times, including in 2007, 2011, 2019 and 2023, has maintained his interest in the 2027 contest. He had previously indicated that the 2027 election could be his final presidential attempt, citing his age and the significance of the election.
The latest intervention from Kwankwaso adds another layer to the debate over opposition leadership and the possibility of a unified platform ahead of the 2027 polls.
Kwankwaso contested the 2023 presidential election under the New Nigeria Peoples Party, while Atiku is now seeking the presidency on the ADC platform. Their competing political ambitions have remained part of the wider opposition realignment ahead of the election.
