Precious Nwonu, Enugu
Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has urged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race.
Kwankwaso, who is the running mate to NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi, made the appeal on Monday while speaking at his Abuja residence during a meeting with members of the Fulani Farmers Association.
Speaking in Hausa, the former Kano State governor appealed to the group to advise Atiku, citing his age and health.
“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,” he said.
Kwankwaso also promised that he and Obi would take care of Atiku if they emerge victorious in the 2027 election.
“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,” he added.
Atiku emerged as the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate in May 2026, setting the stage for another presidential contest.
His emergence marked his latest attempt at securing Nigeria’s presidency after first contesting for the position in 1993.
The former Vice-President was the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the 2019 election, where he lost to then-incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking after his emergence as the ADC candidate, Atiku pledged to focus on national unity, security, economic development, education and greater devolution of resources and powers to Nigeria’s federating units.
“This time around is different; our journey will not end at the poll; we will get to work and rescue Nigeria. I invite every Nigerian to join me in this mission to save our dear country,” he said.
Atiku also promised to pursue a liberal economy with lower taxes for small businesses and low-income earners if elected president.
“I have never been this optimistic, and with your support and God’s grace, we will get to the promised land,” he said.