The vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to step down from the 2027 presidential race.

Kwankwaso made this call on Monday at his residence in Abuja when the former governor of Kano State had a meeting with members of the Fulani Farmers Association.

Kwankwaso who is the running mate to Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, pleaded with Atiku to reconsider his presidential ambition, citing his age and health.

He added that he and Obi would take care of Atiku if they won the presidency when the 2027 general elections take place.

“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,” he said in Hausa.

“If Allah grants us success, we will take good care of him, especially since you all come from Adamawa. An apology should be offered to him.”

Atiku emerged as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential flag bearer in May 2026, signaling a major turning point for the party and a significant shift in the early dynamics of Nigeria’s 2027 political race.

The declaration marked the sixth time Atiku will be campaigning for president. He contested for the first time in 1993.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 general election, announced his decision at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.

The PDP 2019 presidential candidate lost to Muhammadu Buhari who was voted into office for a second term.

“This time around is different; our journey will not end at the poll; we will get to work and rescue Nigeria. I invite every Nigerian to join me in this mission to save our dear country,” Atiku said.

“Nigeria is a land of possibility. There is no challenging background that will make any Nigerian give up. I am a living witness to what is possible in Nigeria.”

If he wins, Atiku said presidency, Nigeria “will operate a liberal economy that allows small businesses to grow through lower taxes for small businesses and low-income earners.”

“Under my presidency, I want to focus on five key areas: the unity of Nigeria, security, economy, education and devolving more resources and powers to the federating units,” Atiku said.

“I have never been this optimistic, and with your support and God’s grace, we will get to the promised land.”