In a major political move ahead of the next general elections, Rabi’u Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race and support the NDC coalition.
A Call for Strategic Opposition Realignment
Kwankwaso made the appeal on Thursday, September 10, during a meeting with members of the Fulani Farmers Association at his private residence in Abuja. Addressing the delegation, he proposed that the former Vice President step aside to pave the way for a unified opposition front, promising that Atiku would be well accommodated if the NDC secures the presidency.
“Step down for us; if we win, we will take care of you,” Kwankwaso stated, emphasizing the need for cooperation to successfully challenge the ruling party.
Unifying Against the APC
This development comes as opposition parties step up discussions regarding alliances and mergers aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. Political analysts view Kwankwaso’s public overture as a calculated attempt to consolidate votes and avoid dividing the opposition’s base.
The opposition landscape has already experienced significant shifts. In May, Kwankwaso and the current NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, exited the ADC to join the NDC. Their departure was triggered by persistent internal squabbles and ongoing legal battles within the ADC hierarchy.
With Atiku remaining a prominent figure in the 2027 race, the pressure is mounting on key political actors to build a singular, cohesive platform capable of mounting a formidable challenge in the next electoral cycle.