Atiku names Kenneth Okonkwo campaign spokesperson despite earlier VP row

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

The appointment came weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the emergence of former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate, arguing that the decision further sidelined the South-East from producing Nigeria’s president.

Okonkwo had maintained that the South-East remained the only major geopolitical zone yet to produce a president since the return to democratic rule in 1999, warning that the choice of another South-South politician as vice-presidential candidate could deepen feelings of marginalisation in the region.

Confirming the appointment on Thursday, Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, said the decision was personally approved by the Waziri Adamawa.

Announcing his new role on his social media platforms, Okonkwo described the appointment as a demonstration of Atiku’s democratic credentials and willingness to accommodate dissenting views.

“This appointment speaks volumes of the democratic credentials of HE AA. Rather than pick offence against any of his associates for expressing genuine reservations about any action taken, HE AA always opts for dialogue and compromise that will engender solutions to problems,” he said.

According to him, discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC addressed concerns over the South-East’s place in the party and provided assurances within the constraints of the Electoral Act 2026 and prevailing political realities.

Okonkwo also acknowledged the intervention of Kashim Imam, saying his role reinforced the party’s commitment to inclusiveness irrespective of ethnicity, religion, gender or region.

He further commended former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu for his sacrifices in strengthening the party, describing his efforts as instrumental to the coalition’s preparations for the 2027 elections.

Expressing appreciation to his family, friends and supporters, Okonkwo sought prayers for wisdom, courage and strength to discharge his new responsibility.

The appointment is widely seen as Atiku’s move to close ranks within his campaign following disagreements over the composition of the ADC presidential ticket and to strengthen his communication team ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested 2027 presidential election.