Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed lawyer, actor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson, despite the latter’s recent criticism of the party’s choice of running mate for the 2027 presidential election.
Okonkwo announced his appointment in a statement posted on his official X account on Thursday, expressing appreciation to Atiku for entrusting him with the role.
“I give God all the glory to be appointed by His Excellency Atiku Abubakar as his spokesperson. I thank HE AA for the immense confidence reposed in me,” he wrote.
He said the appointment reflected Atiku’s willingness to accommodate differing opinions rather than punish associates for expressing concerns.
“Rather than pick offence against any of his associates for expressing genuine reservations of any action taken, HE AA always opts for dialogue and compromise that will engender solution to problems,” Okonkwo stated.
According to him, discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC addressed concerns over the political interests of the South-East, despite what he described as limitations imposed by the Electoral Act, 2026.
“At a dialogue with HE AA and other well-meaning members of the African Democratic Congress, the interests of the South-East have been 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 general election.
He further thanked his family, supporters and associates for their encouragement and prayers.
“My sincere gratitude to my family, fans, and friends for their support and prayers, which God answered in covering my errors and colouring my efforts to pave way for this appointment. I still covet your prayers for wisdom, courage, provision, and protection needed to carry out this challenging post, which will usher in a glorious and great Nigeria,” he added.
The appointment comes just weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s choice of vice-presidential candidate, warning that the decision could further sideline the South-East in Nigeria’s political leadership.
He had argued that reports indicating the party was considering a vice-presidential candidate from the South-South would deny the South-East representation in either the presidency or vice presidency, a situation he said had persisted since 1999.
The ADC has since named former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election following Atiku’s emergence as the party’s presidential candidate at its nationwide primary.