Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed former Nollywood actor and lawyer, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his official spokesperson.
The appointment of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, coming only weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s decision on its vice-presidential candidate, is a move widely seen as an effort to consolidate party unity and strengthen his media team ahead of the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo had said the choice of the vice president could further sideline the South-East in Nigeria’s political power-sharing arrangement.
Announcing the development on his verified X handle on Thursday, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to Atiku for the confidence reposed in him, describing the appointment as a demonstration of the former vice president’s willingness to embrace dialogue rather than punish dissenting voices.
“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.
According to Okonkwo, Atiku’s leadership style encourages constructive engagement, noting that the former vice president prefers consultation and compromise whenever disagreements arise within his political family.
He further revealed that discussions held with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC addressed concerns about the political interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, and prevailing political realities.
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 efforts toward strengthening the party as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections.
He equally appreciated his family, supporters and associates for their encouragement and prayers, while seeking continued support as he assumes what he described as a demanding national responsibility.
The appointment marks a significant reconciliation, following Okonkwo’s public reservations over the ADC’s vice-presidential selection process. He had argued that choosing a running mate from the South-South would further deny the South-East representation in either the presidency or vice presidency, a concern he said had persisted since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Despite the earlier disagreement, 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 secured the party’s presidential ticket.
Political observers say Okonkwo’s appointment reflects an effort by the Atiku campaign to project inclusiveness, accommodate differing opinions within the party and present a united front as the race for the 2027 presidential election gathers momentum.
