Atiku Appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as Campaign Spokesperson Ahead of 2027 Election

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed lawyer, actor and politician Kenneth Okonkwo as the official spokesperson for his 2027 presidential campaign.

The announcement comes just weeks after Okonkwo openly criticized the ADC over its choice of a vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, raising concerns about the political representation of the South-East.

Confirming his appointment in a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to Atiku for 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.

Okonkwo described the appointment as evidence of Atiku’s leadership style, saying the former vice president embraces dialogue and constructive criticism rather than taking offence when party members raise genuine concerns.

According to him, consultations with Atiku and other senior ADC leaders addressed issues surrounding the political interests of the South-East within the limitations of the Electoral Act, 2026, and prevailing political realities.

He stated that discussions provided assurances that the region’s interests would be protected despite the challenges posed by the current legal and political framework.

The newly appointed spokesperson also acknowledged the roles played by Atiku’s ally, Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 polls.

Okonkwo further thanked his family, supporters and well wishers for their prayers and encouragement, asking for continued support as he takes on what he described as a demanding national assignment.

His appointment follows his recent criticism of the ADC’s vice-presidential selection process. Okonkwo had argued that choosing a running mate from the South-South would further marginalize the South-East, noting that the region has not produced either the President or Vice President since 1999.

Despite his concerns, the ADC ultimately selected former Rivers State governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate after the former vice president emerged as the party’s presidential candidate through its nationwide direct primary.