The Nigerian Youths for Atiku (NYFA) has called on Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), to refrain from disparaging the reputation of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
In a statement released on Friday in Lagos, NYFA’s Director of Communications, Mr. Dare Dada, addressed concerns following a recent media interview in which Kwankwaso accused Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), of spreading falsehoods at the age of 80.
Kwankwaso alleged that Abubakar’s camp misled some Northern elders by claiming that he had made an agreement with Kwankwaso and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, to share the presidency starting in 2027.
Dada rejected these claims, asserting that the former vice president does not pose a threat to Kwankwaso’s presidential aspirations.
“It is disheartening that someone of Kwankwaso’s stature would resort to such desperate attempts to tarnish the image of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, simply to gain cheap political mileage,” he stated.
“The former Vice President does not require validation from Kwankwaso to maintain his political relevance in Nigeria.”
He criticized the spread of falsehoods as not only absurd but also demeaning, especially at a time when opposition leaders should be focused on forming alliances to improve conditions for Nigerians leading up to the 2027 elections.
Dada emphasized the need for opposition figures to avoid divisive rhetoric that could hinder unity and progress in the country.
He urged Kwankwaso to redirect his efforts toward addressing the pressing issues facing Northern Nigeria instead.
“The youth of this nation are committed to integrity and determined to move past the politics of deceit and manipulation,” Dada declared.
“We believe that a commitment to honesty and integrity in politics will always prevail over self-serving lies.”
NYFA reaffirmed its dedication to supporting visionary leaders like Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who prioritize national development and the well-being of all Nigerians above personal ambitions.
