Political Showdown: Kwankwaso Urges Atiku To Quit Politics for Traditional Role

Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly urged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to reconsider his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election. Kwankwaso suggested that Atiku should instead concentrate on his traditional responsibilities, citing concerns over his age and health. These remarks were made during a visit by members of the Fulani Farmers Association to Kwankwaso's Abuja residence, where he received their support and engaged in discussions concerning the 2027 general elections.

The former Kano State governor, in what appeared to be a direct criticism of Atiku's repeated attempts to secure the presidency, specifically advised Atiku's supporters, particularly those from Adamawa State, to convince the former vice-president to step aside. Kwankwaso directly quoted, “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. 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.”

This intervention by Kwankwaso introduces a new dynamic into the intricate political landscape that is already forming for the 2027 presidency. Leading political figures across various platforms are actively positioning themselves for what is anticipated to be another fiercely contested election. Atiku Abubakar, who has pursued the Nigerian presidency for over three decades, had previously acknowledged that the 2027 election would likely be his final bid for the nation's highest political office. In April, he stated that his age, coupled with the increasing stakes surrounding the presidential contest, meant that another attempt in 2027 would indeed be his last. When asked if turning 80 by 2027 would heighten the stakes, Atiku affirmed, “Certainly yes, because the stakes are higher and I believe that will be my last outing.”

Atiku has consistently remained one of Nigeria’s most persistent presidential contenders since his return to partisan politics, having sought the office repeatedly under different political banners. His initial attempt dates back to 1993, when he participated in the Social Democratic Party’s presidential primaries before stepping down for the late Chief Moshood Abiola. He re-entered the race in 2007 under the Action Congress, ultimately losing to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. In 2011, he contested on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria but was defeated by former President Goodluck Jonathan. After rejoining the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku emerged as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2019 election but was unsuccessful against former President Muhammadu Buhari. He again secured the PDP presidential ticket in 2023 but was defeated by President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress.

Despite his series of electoral losses, Atiku has maintained a prominent role in Nigeria’s opposition politics, consistently advocating for restructuring, economic liberalisation, and private sector-driven growth. His decision to pursue the presidency again in 2027 has, however, sparked ongoing debate regarding whether he should make one final attempt or cede leadership to a younger generation of politicians. Kwankwaso’s recent comments underscore the escalating rivalry and conflicting aspirations among political figures aiming to shape the opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 election, particularly as parties and key politicians initiate early consultations and alliances. With Atiku firm on the idea that another presidential contest could be his last, Kwankwaso’s call for his retirement is expected to further intensify discussions about the former vice-president’s political future and the battle for the leadership of Nigeria’s opposition as 2027 approaches.