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By Lawrence Agbo
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has named lawyer and politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his official spokesperson, bringing the ADC chieftain into a key role in his 2027 presidential campaign.
Okonkwo disclosed the appointment on Thursday through a post on his verified X account, thanking Atiku for the opportunity to serve and describing the decision as a demonstration of the former vice president’s inclusive leadership style.
“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.
The former actor said Atiku chose engagement over resentment despite his previous public reservations about the party’s decisions, particularly on the selection of a vice-presidential candidate.
“Rather than pick offence against any of his associates for expressing genuine reservations about any action taken, HE AA always opts for dialogue and compromise that will engender solutions to problems,” Okonkwo stated.
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According to Okonkwo, his discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) focused on ensuring that the interests of the South-East were adequately protected within the limits of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the prevailing political realities.
“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.
He maintained that the consultations reassured him that the region’s concerns had been taken into account.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the support of Dr Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr Ekene Onwuka, for their contributions to the party’s preparations for the 2027 elections.
Expressing gratitude to his supporters, family and friends, he prayed for wisdom, courage and strength to carry out his new responsibilities effectively.
The appointment follows weeks of public debate after Okonkwo criticised reports that the ADC intended to pick a South-South politician as its vice-presidential candidate, arguing that such a move would further diminish the South-East’s chances of occupying either the presidency or vice presidency.
