2027: Why I asked Atiku to step down for Peter Obi – Kwankwaso
Kwankwaso Urges Atiku to Step Aside for Obi Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Adegboyega Adeleye
Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called for former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to withdraw his candidacy in support of NDC’s Peter Obi for the upcoming 2027 general elections. This request stems from their lengthy political history and a desire to promote a new political framework.
Kwankwaso made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday. He recounted his decades-long relationship with Atiku, explained his support for Obi, and discussed the NDC’s stance on fuel prices and the subsidy issue.
When asked directly if he was insisting that Atiku relinquish his presidential ambitions, Kwankwaso answered affirmatively, stating, “Well, yes.”
He shared that he recently encouraged a group of Fulani leaders from across the country to communicate with Atiku regarding this request. “I thought it was an opportunity for me to talk to them and ask them that they should create time before they go back to their towns and villages to talk to him,” Kwankwaso explained.
Despite his firm stance, Kwankwaso emphasized that his call for Atiku to step aside is not driven by any animosity. He highlighted their history of collaboration, stating, “His Excellency Vice-President Atiku Abubakar is somebody that I know fairly well. And we have done so much together in the past.”
The depth of their political relationship dates back to 1993, when both were involved in a political movement helmed by the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua. Kwankwaso recalled their support for Atiku as the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) during that period.
“Unfortunately, it didn’t work out, but our relationship continued into the transition to civilian rule in 1999,” Kwankwaso said, recalling his election as Governor of Kano during that time. He noted that he and Atiku worked closely during the subsequent presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo, where Atiku served as vice-president.
Kwankwaso also recounted Atiku’s significant role in the 2003 elections and the overwhelming support he received from Kano in the 2007 presidential race. He acknowledged their differing political affiliations at times, including Atiku’s involvement with the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in 2007, while he was not a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Looking ahead, Kwankwaso reaffirmed that his appeal for Atiku to step aside should not be viewed as a personal affront. “What I’m trying to say is that we are not against him,” he said, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of their past endeavors.
