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, weeks after the latter publicly criticised the party’s choice of vice presidential candidate.
The appointment is expected to strengthen Atiku’s media and public communication strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Okonkwo announced the appointment in a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, expressing appreciation 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 a reflection of Atiku’s leadership style, saying the former vice president values dialogue, consultation and compromise.
“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,” Okonkwo stated.
According to him, discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC addressed concerns about the political interests of the South East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, and 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.
Okonkwo also thanked Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Chief Ralph Nwosu and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, for their roles in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
He further expressed appreciation to his family, friends and supporters 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 opposed the ADC’s choice of vice presidential candidate.
The former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesperson had argued that selecting a running mate from the South South would deepen the political marginalisation of the South East, noting that the region has not produced either Nigeria’s President or Vice President since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
Despite his reservations, the ADC eventually named former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate after the former vice president emerged as the party’s presidential candidate.
