Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed prominent African Democratic Congress chieftain and actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his official spokesperson.
The development was made public on Thursday through a statement released by Okonkwo on his verified X account, where he expressed gratitude to Atiku for entrusting him with the responsibility.
“I give God all the glory for this appointment by His Excellency Atiku Abubakar as his spokesperson. I sincerely appreciate him for the confidence he has placed in me,” Okonkwo wrote.
He said the appointment reflected Atiku’s inclusive style of leadership, explaining that the former vice president encouraged dialogue and constructive engagement whenever differences arose among his associates.
Okonkwo disclosed that consultations involving Atiku and other stakeholders in the ADC also addressed concerns over the political interests of the South-East despite the limitations created by the Electoral Act, 2026.
He said, “During discussions with His Excellency Atiku Abubakar and other committed leaders of the African Democratic Congress, the interests of the South-East were carefully considered and assured within the realities of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the prevailing political situation.”
The former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesman also appreciated Dr Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr Ekene Onwuka, for their efforts toward strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
He equally thanked his family, friends and supporters for their encouragement and prayers, while seeking continued support as he begins his new assignment.
The appointment comes shortly after Okonkwo criticised the party’s vice-presidential selection process, arguing that reports of a South-South running mate could further diminish the South-East’s chances of occupying either the presidency or vice-presidency.
The ADC later confirmed 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 for the 2027 poll.
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