Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed actor-turned-politician and prominent ADC chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo as his official spokesperson.
Okonkwo announced his appointment on Thursday through a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, expressing gratitude to Atiku for entrusting him with the responsibility.
“I give God all the glory for this appointment by His Excellency Atiku Abubakar as his spokesperson. I deeply appreciate the confidence he has placed in me,” he stated.
Reflecting on Atiku’s leadership style, Okonkwo described the former vice president as a leader who embraces dialogue, consultation, and consensus-building rather than taking offence when associates express differing opinions.
According to him, recent engagements with Atiku and other senior ADC stakeholders focused on safeguarding the political interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, while taking into account the prevailing political realities ahead of the 2027 elections.
He noted that the discussions provided assurances that the concerns of the South-East would be accommodated despite the legal and political challenges facing the party.
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, commending their efforts toward strengthening the party and positioning it for electoral success in 2027.
He further expressed appreciation to his family, friends, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement and prayers, while requesting continued support as he assumes the demanding role.
“I still covet your prayers for wisdom, courage, provision, and protection as I undertake this important assignment in pursuit of a greater and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
The appointment follows weeks after Okonkwo openly questioned the ADC’s vice-presidential selection process. He had maintained that choosing a running mate from the South-South would further sideline the South-East, a region that has not produced either Nigeria’s President or Vice President since the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Despite those reservations, the ADC eventually nominated 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.
