2027: We won’t step down for Atiku – Kwankwaso declares

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Vice-presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has vowed not to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race in favour of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

He accused the ADC campaign team of attacking him, Peter Obi and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) instead of focusing on its own candidate.

Kwankwaso also denied claims that the NDC ticket was working for the ruling APC, insisting that he and Obi remained in the race.

He made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X handle on Sunday October 18, 2026, insisting that the NDC ticket remained committed to contesting the presidential election.

“Let me state clearly and unequivocally: we will not withdraw our candidature for the ADC or any other party. We remain confident in our capacity, competence, and readiness to lead Nigeria”, he said.

He alleged that rather than presenting the competence, credibility and capacity of its own candidate to Nigerians, the ADC campaign council was focused on creating mischief against the NDC and its presidential ticket.

The former Kano State governor said the alleged attacks included attempts to portray the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket as working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and suggestions that it could withdraw from the race at the last minute in favour of the ADC candidate.

Kwankwaso warned that the ADC-PCC might attempt to mislead NDC supporters on the eve of the election by claiming that the party intended to step aside for Atiku.

“The OK ticket is neither working for nor acting on behalf of the APC or any of its candidates. We see no possibility or reason to withdraw from the presidential race in favour of the ADC candidate or any other. These claims are unfounded and should be treated as such”, he stated.

He described the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket as a credible and viable option for Nigerians, citing its experience, record of achievements, credibility and support across Northern and Southern Nigeria, saying the ticket is committed to promoting national unity and addressing critical challenges affecting the country, including insecurity, education, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare and the economy.

Kwankwaso maintained that the NDC remained the country’s most formidable opposition party and urged supporters to remain committed to its electoral ambition.

-9News Nigeria.