Kwankwaso urges Atiku to quit 2027 race over age, health

Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race, citing his age and health. The appeal was made during a meeting with members of the Fulani Farmers Association at Kwankwaso's residence in Abuja. Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano and leader of the Kwankwassiyya Movement, urged supporters to persuade Atiku to step aside. "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 coalition succeeds, "we will take good care of him." The statement intensifies friction within Nigeria's opposition as parties attempt to build a unified front ahead of the 2027 elections. Deep-seated disagreements over who should lead a consensus ticket have stalled unity talks. Kwankwaso's call is seen as a direct challenge to Atiku's continued ambition. Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has pursued the presidency multiple times.