Coalition of Civil Society Groups has urged presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, to step down for his New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Musa Kwankwaso.

It noted that the Wazirin Adamawa has done his best for Nigeria as a former vice president and must avoid unnecessary splitting of votes in the North.

Addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja, leader of the coalition, Bishop Godwin Abah, said the nation’s destiny was at stake, noting that the momentous period requires the political sagacity and tenacity of purpose of Kwankwaso presidency to redirect the country from its perilous course.

He said: “A servant-leader with a milk of human kindness, Kwankwaso, transformed Kano State as a two- term governor and will bring his wealth of experience as former Minister of Defence, ambassador, senator, deputy speaker and House of Representatives to bear on national governance as president.”

This came as hundreds of northern youths, yesterday, rose in support of the ex-vice president, vowing to work for his victory at this weekend’s poll.

The Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (JACOM) claimed that his rivals were less qualified for the office.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the convener, Murtala Abubakar, stated that they “cannot afford to elect some opportunists, who will take us through hell for another four years.”

He continued: “The 2023 elections would be a watershed for all of us, especially the younger generation. The decision we are going to make will either make or mar Nigeria.”

None of those contesting has been in politics and run for offices like Atiku. None but Atiku has occupied the number two position for eight years. None of them knows Nigeria like Atiku. None can boast of having biological family ties across Nigeria like Atiku. None has built political bridges across Nigeria and beyond like Atiku. Atiku is not going to rely on anyone or group to teach him how to lead Nigeria.”