Former Vice President and the 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 posted on his official X account on Thursday, thanking Atiku for the opportunity and confidence 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,” he said.
Reflecting on Atiku's leadership style, Okonkwo said the former vice president encourages dialogue and consensus rather than taking offence when associates express differing views.
“Rather than take offence at associates for expressing genuine reservations about any action taken, His Excellency always opts for dialogue and compromise that engenders solutions to problems,” Okonkwo stated.
He revealed that consultations with Atiku and other senior figures in the ADC focused on protecting the political interests of the South-East while taking into account the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the country's current 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 acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku's Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, for their roles in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
He further expressed appreciation to his family, friends and supporters for their prayers and encouragement.
“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 just weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC's handling of its vice-presidential selection process. At the time, he argued that reports suggesting the party was considering a running mate from the South-South would further marginalise the South-East, noting that the region has not produced either Nigeria's president or vice president since 1999.
Despite those reservations, 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 emerged as the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
