The Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has appealed to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate and former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race.
Kwankwaso made the appeal on Thursday while receiving members of the Fulani Farmers Association, who paid him a visit at his residence in Abuja.
The former Kano State governor urged Atiku to consider stepping aside from the presidential contest and concentrate on his traditional responsibilities as the Wazirin Adamawa, citing the former vice-president’s age and health.
He also appealed to supporters of the ADC presidential candidate, particularly those from Adamawa State, to persuade Atiku to withdraw from the race.
Kwankwaso said, “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.
“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.”
Atiku, who has contested the Nigerian presidency on several occasions, including in 2007, 2011, 2019 and 2023, has indicated that the 2027 election could be his final attempt at securing the presidency.
The former vice-president has remained a prominent advocate of political restructuring, economic liberalisation and private sector-led economic growth.
Kwankwaso’s appeal comes amid increasing political realignments and manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition figures and parties exploring alliances aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).