Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has named actor-turned-politician and African Democratic Congress chieftain, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson in a fresh political appointment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development follows weeks after Okonkwo publicly expressed reservations over the party’s reported choice of a vice-presidential candidate for the upcoming election cycle.
Confirming the appointment on Thursday via his official X handle, Okonkwo said he was honoured by the confidence reposed in him by Atiku Abubakar.
“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 went on to describe Atiku’s leadership approach as inclusive, noting that the former Vice President prioritises engagement and compromise when addressing internal disagreements rather than confrontation.
“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, recent discussions involving Atiku and key stakeholders within the ADC also touched on the political interests of the South-East, particularly within the constraints of 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 added.
Okonkwo also expressed appreciation to several individuals, including Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Ekene Onwuka, for their roles in strengthening the party ahead of the elections.
“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 said.
The appointment comes shortly after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s consideration of a vice-presidential candidate, particularly reports suggesting a nominee from the South-South region.
He had cautioned that such a move could further intensify concerns over the continued exclusion of the South-East from Nigeria’s top political offices, arguing that the region has been without either a president or vice president since 1999.
