‘We’ll care for you’, Kwankwaso asks Atiku to retire

Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the Vice-Presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged his rival, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to retire from the 2027 presidential race. While meeting members of the Fulani Farmers Association at his residence in Abuja, Kwankwaso highlighted Atiku's age and health concerns.

He suggested that supporters of the ADC candidate should persuade Atiku to withdraw from the contest, urging him to focus on his traditional responsibilities as Wazirin of Adamawa. Should Allah grant their success, Kwankwaso promised that they would ensure Atiku's well-being, especially since they share a common heritage from Adamawa.

In April, Atiku had stated that the 2027 election might be his last attempt at becoming Nigeria's leader, citing his age and the high stakes involved. When asked if turning 80 in 2027 would heighten the stakes, Atiku confirmed that it would indeed be his final run. Atiku has made several bids for the presidency since 2003, with notable losses in 1993, 2007, 2011, and 2019.

He has been a strong advocate for restructuring, economic liberalization, and private sector-driven growth throughout his political career.