Atiku appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as spokesperson amid ADC VP candidate dispute
Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson, an announcement Okonkwo made in a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, July 2, 2026. The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo publicly criticised the ADC’s choice of vice‑presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
In his statement, Okonkwo thanked Atiku for the confidence reposed in him, describing the appointment as a reflection of Atiku’s inclusive leadership style that prefers dialogue and consensus over hostility toward associates who express differing views. He noted that discussions with Atiku and other ADC leaders addressed the South‑East’s political interests despite the constraints of the Electoral Act, 2026, and thanked Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Ekene Onwuka for their contributions to strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Okonkwo also warned that selecting a South‑South candidate for the ADC’s vice‑presidential slot would deepen the South‑East’s marginalisation—a situation that has persisted since 1999—and urged continued prayers for wisdom, courage, provision and protection in his new role. The development highlights shifting alliances within the ADC and signals Atiku’s effort to broaden his support base ahead of the 2027 polls. How might Atiku’s inclusive approach influence ADC’s coalition‑building and South‑East voter allegiance in the upcoming election?