The move, the party claimed, had become imperative following the allegations of drug peddling and corruption levelled against both candidates respectively.
In a statement signed by NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr Agbo Major, said their withdrawal from the race would give them ample time to answer to charges preferred against them in court.
The statement read, “Nigeria has been brought to ridicule and disrepute before the comity of nations over accusations of high level corruption and drug peddling against Atiku and Tinubu. He that goes to equity must come with a clean hand.
“NNPP demands the immediate withdrawal of both presidential candidates to answer to charges preferred against them in court. It is justice juxtaposed for them to continue in the presidential race with heavy allegations of wrongdoings on their shoulders. It is moral burden for the two candidates to continue in this race at a time Nigerians are looking for a younger and unblemished crop of leaders. There is no moral justification for Atiku and Tinubu to strive to rule the nation until the court decides their fates one way or the other. National interest supersedes personal interests, aggrandizement and grandstanding in the quest for a better, greater, progressive, equitable and just democratic nation.
“Nigerians are tired of recycled politicians who have numerous cases of corruption, drugs, birth/educational certificates, health and questionable source of wealth. Citizens want men and women of integrity, visionary, purposeful, resourceful, dynamic and transformational leaders to usher them to a new and better Nigeria we all desire and deserve.
“Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is the man of the moment to give Nigerians a new lease of life after years of wandering in political wilderness from the oppressive APC and PDP regimes.
“Eligible Nigerians should collect their PVCs and let their voice be heard loud and clear in the forthcoming elections.”
