Kwankwaso asks Atiku to quit 2027 presidential race over age, health concerns

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race, citing his age and reported health concerns.

Kwankwaso reportedly made the appeal during a meeting with members of the Fulani Farmers Association at his residence in Abuja, as discussions intensify over who should lead the opposition against President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

The former Kano State governor reportedly advised Atiku to step away from another presidential contest and devote greater attention to his traditional responsibilities in his Adamawa State community.

Kwankwaso asks Atiku’s supporters to persuade him

Addressing the farmers, Kwankwaso urged Atiku’s supporters to speak with the former vice president about withdrawing from the race.

According to the report, he referenced Atiku’s age and health while arguing that the former vice president should concentrate on his traditional duties.

Kwankwaso also reportedly promised that Atiku and his community would be well taken care of if the Nigeria Democratic Congress emerged victorious in the 2027 presidential election. He further said an apology should be offered to him.

Opposition battle for 2027 intensifies

The development comes amid efforts by opposition politicians to rally around a candidate capable of challenging Tinubu in 2027.

Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s vice president between 1999 and 2007, has made several attempts to become president.

In April, he reportedly suggested that the 2027 presidential election could be his final attempt at the country’s highest office, citing his age and the significance of the contest.

Kwankwaso’s latest intervention adds another dimension to the debate over the opposition’s presidential candidate ahead of 2027.