Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed lawyer and actor Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson, weeks after the party stalwart publicly criticised the selection of the party's vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
Okonkwo disclosed his appointment in a statement posted on his official X account on Thursday, describing it as a privilege to serve and thanking 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.
He said the appointment underscored Atiku's leadership style of embracing dialogue and accommodating differing views rather than alienating associates who express concerns.
"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 stated.
According to him, discussions held with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC addressed concerns over the political interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, and prevailing political realities.
"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 said.
Okonkwo also expressed appreciation to 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 polls.
He further thanked his family, friends and supporters for their encouragement and prayers.
"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 comes after Okonkwo voiced reservations over the party's choice of vice-presidential candidate, warning that naming a candidate from the South-South could further deepen the political exclusion of the South-East.
He had argued that such a decision would leave the South-East without representation in either the presidency or vice presidency, a situation he said had persisted since Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999.
Despite the objections, the ADC subsequently named 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.
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