Kwankwaso tells Atiku to step aside from 2027 presidential bid

At his Abuja residence, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso—Peter Obi's running mate on the Nigeria Democratic Congress ticket—met with the Fulani Farmers Association. During this gathering, he called on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to reconsider his 2027 presidential ambitions.

The message targeted not only Atiku but also those in his circle. Two principal reasons underpinned Kwankwaso's position.

First, he pointed to Atiku's advanced age; second, he raised concerns regarding the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate's state of health. Rather than pursuing another presidential campaign, Kwankwaso contended that Atiku should direct his attention to his traditional responsibilities—specifically his role as Wazirin Adamawa.

The members present were asked to communicate this perspective to Atiku. Kwankwaso sweetened his appeal with a pledge.

Should the NDC secure victory in 2027, he promised that Atiku would continue to receive substantive support from the party. Such reassurance appeared designed to soften the blow of his call for stepping aside.

The remarks underscore mounting pressure from a prominent opposition figure as Nigeria's electoral landscape shifts heading into the coming election. Atiku has persisted in his political pursuits via the ADC despite previous electoral defeats, including his 2023 loss to President Bola Tinubu.

This exchange between the two northern leaders—both having moved through various political parties—highlights ongoing conversations about political succession and candidacy viability within Nigeria's divided opposition as the 2027 general election approaches.