Atiku picks Kenneth Okonkwo as official spokesperson

Following weeks of internal debate within the African Democratic Congress over its vice-presidential nomination, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has named actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson.

Okonkwo confirmed the appointment in a statement published on his verified X account on Thursday, expressing appreciation to Atiku for entrusting him with the role.

He wrote, “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.”

Reflecting on the appointment, Okonkwo said Atiku’s decision demonstrated a willingness to accommodate differing opinions rather than silence them.

“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,” he said.

According to him, consultations involving Atiku and other senior figures in the ADC also addressed concerns about political representation for the South-East.

“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 stated.

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 in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Expressing gratitude to his supporters, he said, “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.”

The appointment follows comments made by Okonkwo several weeks ago in which he criticised the party’s choice of vice-presidential candidate.

He had argued that selecting a running mate from the South-South instead of the South-East would deepen what he described as the region’s continued marginalisation in Nigeria’s highest political offices. According to him, the South-East has been excluded from both the presidency and vice presidency since 1999.

Despite those concerns, the ADC eventually settled on former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate after the former vice president secured the party’s presidential ticket at its nationwide primary.