Just in: Atiku appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as spokesperson
Atiku Abubakar Appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as Spokesperson Ahead of 2027 Elections
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the upcoming 2027 election, has appointed actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson.
Okonkwo announced his appointment in a statement on his official X account on Thursday, expressing gratitude to Abubakar for the trust placed 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,” Okonkwo said.
He characterized the appointment as emblematic of Abubakar’s leadership philosophy, which prioritizes dialogue and inclusivity. “Rather than take offense at associates for expressing genuine reservations about any action taken, His Excellency always opts for dialogue and compromise that engender solutions to problems,” Okonkwo added.
In discussions with Abubakar and other ADC leaders, Okonkwo noted that concerns regarding the political interests of the South-East were addressed within the context of the Electoral Act of 2026 and the current political landscape.
“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 of 2026 and the realities on the ground,” he stated.
Okonkwo thanked several key figures, including Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, for their efforts to fortify the party in preparation for the 2027 general election. He also expressed gratitude to 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.
This appointment follows Okonkwo’s public criticism of the ADC’s selection process for the vice-presidential candidate for the upcoming election. He argued against reports suggesting a vice-presidential candidate from the South-South, asserting that such a move would exacerbate the political marginalization of the South-East region, which has not produced a president or vice president since 1999.
Despite these concerns, the ADC recently named former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi as Abubakar’s running mate after the former vice president secured the party’s presidential nomination.