The Forum for Democratic Patriots (FDP) has urged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race and support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The group made the call in a statement issued by its convener, Hon. Sani Ibrahim, in Abuja on Friday.

The FDP said the recent debate among opposition figures over who should step aside for a joint ticket exposed divisions within the opposition ahead of the election.

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It cited Kwankwaso’s reported call for Atiku to withdraw from the race and suggestions that Obi could serve as Atiku’s running mate.

“The FDP, after careful observation, concluded that the opposition’s candidates exchanges over who should quit the 2027 race is the clearest proof none of them has the capacity, pedigree, acceptability and nationwide network to win presidential election come 2027,” the statement said.

The group acknowledged Atiku’s political experience, including his service as vice-president and previous presidential contests, but argued that he should retire from electoral politics.

It noted that Atiku would be 80 in 2027, saying the presidency required a rigorous and demanding commitment.

The FDP also rejected the possibility of an Atiku-Obi ticket, arguing that a political alliance between the two would not guarantee victory.

It urged the three opposition figures to prioritise what it described as the national interest over personal ambition.

The group further called for the consolidation of Tinubu’s administration, citing reforms in foreign exchange, taxation, compressed natural gas, student loans and social safety nets as reasons for continuity.

“Consequently, the FDP calls on Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to consider national interest over personal ambition. They should sheathe their swords and support President Tinubu’s mandate,” it said.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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