Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed actor-turned-politician and ADC chieftain, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson.
Okonkwo announced the appointment in a statement shared on his official X account, 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 said.
He described the appointment as evidence of Atiku’s inclusive leadership style, noting that the former vice president prefers dialogue and compromise over resentment when differences arise among political associates.
According to Okonkwo, discussions with Atiku and other 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 prevailing political realities.
He said that the interests of the South-East were discussed and guaranteed despite the challenges posed by the Electoral Act and the existing political environment.
Okonkwo also appreciated Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, for their contributions toward strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
He equally thanked his family, supporters and friends for their encouragement and prayers, while asking Nigerians to continue praying for him to receive the wisdom, courage and protection needed to discharge his new responsibility.
The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s choice of a vice-presidential candidate, arguing that selecting a running mate from the South-South would further deepen the political marginalisation of the South-East, a region he noted has not produced either Nigeria’s President or Vice President since 1999.
Despite those concerns, the ADC subsequently 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 for the 2027 presidential election.
Tags: Atiku Abubakar, Kenneth Okonkwo, ADC, 2027 Election, Nigerian Politics
