The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has appointed veteran Nollywood actor, lawyer and politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson for the election campaign.
Okonkwo announced the appointment in a post on 𝕏 in the early hours of Thursday, July 2, 2026.
The appointment comes after Okonkwo had earlier said he would not support Atiku following the emergence of Rotimi Amaechi as the former Vice President’s running mate. He had alleged that the South-East was being marginalised.
However, Okonkwo said the issue has now been resolved after discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). According to him, the interests of the South-East have been addressed and guaranteed within the limits of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the current political realities.
He also said his appointment shows that Atiku prefers dialogue and compromise instead of taking offence when his associates raise genuine concerns.
“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.
“This appointment speaks volume of the democratic credentials of HE AA. 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.
“At a dialogue with HE AA and other well-meaning members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), 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.
“I extend special thanks to my brother and friend, Dr Kashim Imam CFR, for his kind and special intervention and counsel, which revealed a special place for all Nigerians, irrespective of place of origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, or cultural affiliations, in the emerging political scenario.
“My gratitude extends to Mr Ralphs Nwosu, former National Chairman of ADC, for his continuous sacrifice, which has assisted in consolidating the ADC to face the numerous challenges put in its way since the formation of the coalition.
“My regards to Dr Ekene Onwuka, SSA to HE AA on Special Duties, for his efforts towards raising a formidable team to ensure the election of HE AA come 2027.
“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.
“Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Okonkwo wrote.
