Okonkwo rejects ADC ticket if VP pick stays South-South, cites SE marginalisation
Former Labour Party spokesman Kenneth Okonkwo criticised Atiku Abubakar over reports that the African Democratic Congress may choose its vice-presidential candidate from the South-South region. In a Monday post on X, Okonkwo called the reported decision “unfortunate” and warned it would continue the marginalisation of the South-East, which has produced neither president nor vice president since 1999. He said denying the South-East the VP slot in 2027 would be an “unpardonable injustice."
Okonkwo reminded that he joined the ADC coalition only after receiving assurance from Atiku that a South-East presidency was possible, and his sole request was for a running mate from the region. He stated that if the ADC confirms a South-South vice-presidential nominee, he will not campaign for the presidential ticket in 2027. He also referenced former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, who relinquished party control to facilitate the coalition aimed at producing a better Nigeria.
The actor-turned-politician said he entered politics to fight regional marginalisation and insists the South-East deserves representation on the national ticket. His stance highlights ongoing debates about power-sharing and equity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With the ADC’s ticket still unfolding, will you view Okonkwo’s threat as a principled stand on regional justice or as a potential fracture in the opposition coalition ahead of 2027?