Just in: Atiku appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as spokesperson
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed actor-turned-politician and ADC chieftain, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson.
Okonkwo announced his appointment in a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, expressing gratitude to Atiku for the confidence reposed in him.
“I give God all the glory for being appointed by His Excellency Atiku Abubakar as his spokesperson. I thank His Excellency for the immense confidence reposed in me,” he wrote.
Describing the appointment as a reflection of Atiku’s leadership style, Okonkwo said the former vice president believes in dialogue, consultation and inclusiveness rather than taking offence when associates express differing opinions.
“Rather than take offence at associates for expressing genuine reservations about any action taken, His Excellency always opts for dialogue and compromise that engender solutions to problems,” he stated.
According to Okonkwo, discussions between Atiku and key leaders of the African Democratic Congress addressed concerns over the political interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the prevailing political realities.
“At a dialogue with His Excellency and other well-meaning members of the African Democratic Congress, the interests of the South-East were discussed and guaranteed within the existing challenges posed by the Electoral Act, 2026, and the realities on the ground,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, for their contributions to strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo further thanked his family, supporters and friends for their encouragement and prayers.
“I still covet your prayers for wisdom, courage, provision and protection needed to carry out this challenging responsibility, which will usher in a glorious and great Nigeria,” he added.
The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo publicly criticised the ADC over reports that it was considering a vice-presidential candidate from the South-South for the 2027 presidential election.
He had argued that such a move would further deepen the political marginalisation of the South-East, noting that the region has not produced either the President or the Vice President since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
Despite those concerns, the ADC later named former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku Abubakar’s running mate after the former vice president secured the party’s presidential ticket.