•Kenneth Okonkwo and Atiku Abubakar
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.
The appointment is expected to strengthen Atiku’s media and public communication strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential campaign.
Okonkwo announced the appointment in a statement posted on his official X handle today, 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 a reflection of Atiku’s leadership style, saying the former vice president prioritises dialogue, consultation and inclusiveness over resentment, reports The Nation.
“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 ADC leaders addressed concerns over 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 expressed gratitude 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 elections.
He 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 came weeks after Okonkwo publicly criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC)’s choice of vice presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
Okonkwo argued that reports suggesting the party was considering a vice presidential candidate from the South-South would further entrench the political marginalisation of the South-East, noting that the region has not produced either the president or vice president since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
Despite his concerns, the ADC later picked former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as the running mate to Atiku Abubakar after the former vice president clinched the party’s presidential ticket.
