Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has named African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson, despite the politician’s recent criticism of the party’s choice of vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo disclosed his appointment in a statement posted on his official X account on Thursday, where he expressed appreciation to Atiku for entrusting him with the role.
“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 said.
He said the appointment reflected Atiku’s approach to leadership, noting that the former vice president welcomes dialogue instead of taking offence when associates express differing opinions.
“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.”
Okonkwo revealed that discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC focused on protecting the interests of the South-East, adding that the issue had been addressed despite challenges arising from the Electoral Act, 2026.
“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.
He 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.
“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,” he added.
The appointment follows comments made by Okonkwo a few weeks ago in which he criticised the ADC’s selection of its vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
He argued that reports indicating the party had settled for a South-South candidate would deepen what he described as the continued marginalisation of the South-East in Nigeria’s political leadership.
According to him, the decision would leave the South-East without representation in either the presidency or the vice presidency, a situation he said had existed since 1999.
The ADC has since confirmed former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election after the former vice president secured the party’s presidential ticket at its nationwide primary.