Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson, weeks after the former publicly criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its choice of vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo announced the appointment on Thursday in a statement shared on his official X account, expressing gratitude to Atiku for the opportunity and the confidence reposed in him.
“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 leadership style, noting that the former vice president welcomes differing opinions and prefers dialogue over confrontation.
According to Okonkwo, Atiku consistently chooses discussion and compromise to resolve disagreements rather than taking offence when associates express genuine concerns.
He also disclosed that meetings involving Atiku and other ADC leaders addressed the political interests of the South-East within the constraints of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the current political realities.
Okonkwo acknowledged the contributions of Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman, and Ekene Onwuka, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, for their efforts in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
He further thanked his family, supporters and friends for their encouragement and prayers, asking for continued support as he assumes what he described as a challenging responsibility.
The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s reported choice of vice-presidential candidate, arguing that selecting a candidate from the South-South would further marginalise the South-East, which has not produced either the President or Vice President since 1999.
The ADC has since confirmed a former South-South governor as Atiku’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election after Atiku secured the party’s presidential ticket during the party’s nationwide primary.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
