Atiku Makes Surprise Move, Appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as 2027 Campaign Spokesperson

(Atiku Abubakar and Kenneth Okonkwo. Photo by Vanguard News)

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has named actor-turned-politician and ADC chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson.

Okonkwo made the announcement in a statement shared on his official social media handle on Thursday, in which he expressed gratitude to Atiku for the trust placed in him.

He said he was grateful to God for the appointment and thanked Atiku for the confidence reposed in him.

He described the appointment as reflective of Atiku's leadership approach, stating that the former vice president prioritises dialogue and inclusiveness rather than harbouring resentment.

He explained that instead of taking offence at associates who raise genuine concerns about decisions, Atiku consistently chooses dialogue and compromise as a way of resolving issues.

According to him, discussions held with Atiku and other ADC leaders addressed the political interests of the South-East within the constraints of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the existing political realities.

He said the interests of the South-East were deliberated on and guaranteed during a dialogue with Atiku and other well-meaning members of the party, taking into account the challenges posed by the Electoral Act and the realities on ground.

Okonkwo also appreciated 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 general election.

He additionally thanked his family, supporters and friends for their encouragement and prayers, and asked that they continue to pray for him to have the wisdom, courage, provision and protection required to fulfil the responsibility, which he said would help usher in a better Nigeria.

The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC's choice of vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

He had contended that reports suggesting the party was leaning toward a running mate from the South-South would deepen the political marginalisation of the South-East, which he noted has not produced either a president or vice president since 1999.

Notwithstanding those concerns, the ADC went on to name former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku Abubakar's running mate after he clinched the party's presidential ticket.