Atiku appoints Kenneth Okonkwo spokesperson

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain and actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson ahead of the 2027 general election. The appointment was announced on Thursday through a statement shared by Okonkwo on his official X account, where he confirmed accepting the new role and expressed appreciation to Atiku for the opportunity.

Okonkwo said he was grateful for the confidence placed in him and described the appointment as another example of Atiku’s willingness to engage party members through discussion instead of allowing disagreements to divide the party. He noted that differences of opinion within a political organisation should be resolved through dialogue that leads to practical solutions.

The former Labour Party spokesperson also revealed that he had held discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC on issues affecting the South-East. According to him, the region’s interests were considered during the meetings despite the legal and political challenges created by the Electoral Act 2026 and other realities surrounding the electoral process.

He also acknowledged the roles played by ADC stakeholders, including Dr Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr Ekene Onwuka, in strengthening the party as preparations continue for the 2027 elections.

Okonkwo thanked his family, supporters and friends for standing by him over the years and asked for continued prayers as he begins his new responsibility. He said the position comes with great responsibility and requires wisdom, courage and commitment.

His appointment follows his earlier criticism of the ADC’s choice of vice-presidential candidate. Weeks ago, Okonkwo questioned the decision to pick a running mate from the South-South, arguing that it would leave the South-East without representation in either the presidential or vice-presidential position, a situation he said had existed since 1999.

Despite his reservations at the time, discussions within the party appear to have eased concerns over regional interests. The ADC has since confirmed 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 during its nationwide primary election.