“Atiku Names Kenneth Okonkwo 2027 Campaign Spokesperson After Internal Party Reconciliation”
Former Nigerian Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed actor turned politician and lawyer Kenneth Okonkwo as his official spokesperson for the 2027 presidential campaign, marking a significant development in the party’s preparations ahead of the next general election.
The appointment comes just weeks after Okonkwo publicly criticized the ADC’s choice of a vice presidential candidate, expressing concerns that the decision could further marginalize Nigeria’s South East region in the country’s political power sharing arrangement.
Confirming the appointment in a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, Okonkwo thanked Atiku for the confidence reposed in him and described the decision as evidence of the former vice president’s willingness to embrace dialogue and differing opinions within the party.
According to Okonkwo, discussions with Atiku and other senior leaders of the ADC addressed concerns surrounding the interests of the South East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the prevailing political realities.
He further stated that Atiku’s leadership style encourages consultation and compromise rather than hostility toward party members who express reservations over strategic decisions.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the roles played by Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, in facilitating dialogue and strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
The appointment is widely viewed as an effort to consolidate the ADC’s communication strategy as political alignments continue to evolve before the 2027 presidential race. It also signals a reconciliation between Atiku and Okonkwo following the latter’s earlier criticism of the party’s vice-presidential selection process.
Political analysts say the development underscores ongoing efforts within the ADC to manage internal disagreements through engagement while presenting a united front as preparations for the next election gather pace.