The Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress,( ADC )Atiku Abubakar has appointed Nollywood actor and Chieftain of the party,Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson,
This comes weeks after Okonkwo criticised the party’s choice of vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election and publicly announced withdrawal of support for the party.
ADC had since settled for Rotimi Amaechi,former governor and ex -Minister of Transportation as Vice Presidential candidate.
Okonkwo who announced his appointment in a statement on Thursday on X expressed gratitude to 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 said.
He described the appointment as evidence of Atiku’s leadership style, saying, “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 disclosed that during discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the ADC, concerns over the interests of the South-East were addressed despite what he described as challenges created by 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 thanked Dr Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr Ekene Onwuka, for their roles in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 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.
