Former spokesperson of the Labour Party and a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has launched a sharp criticism against his former political associate, Peter Obi, describing him as a “conman” while also accusing him of leading what he termed some of the most toxic supporters in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Okonkwo made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, while addressing the recent departure of opposition figures from the ADC-led coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the programme, Okonkwo dismissed concerns that the withdrawal of notable opposition figures such as Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso would weaken the coalition’s political influence or electoral prospects.
The former Labour Party spokesman insisted that the coalition remains strategically positioned as the leading opposition force and argued that recent exits do not fundamentally alter its structure or chances of mounting a serious challenge in 2027.
While responding to questions about Obi’s departure from the alliance, Okonkwo initially referred to the former Anambra State governor as a renegade. However, when pressed further by the interviewer, he escalated his criticism and described Obi as a conman.
Okonkwo attempted to assess the political implications of the exits by referencing the voting strength previously associated with the departed figures.
He said, “Peter Obi exiting… that’s almost a 2 million votes on face value that is gone. Peter Obi almost 7 million votes as of the last count that is gone. You’re talking about about 8 million votes from the two personalities who have gone away from the coalition in question.”
Despite acknowledging the electoral value of such political figures, Okonkwo maintained that the ADC coalition remains the most viable platform for opposition unity.
According to him, opposition leaders must put aside personal interests and unite under a common structure if they hope to successfully challenge President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.
He said, “If the opposition cannot come together to act as one, they should as well go and endorse Tinubu.”
Okonkwo further argued that any politician who distances himself from the coalition is inadvertently helping President Tinubu’s re-election ambition.
“Whoever walks away from the coalition is working for Tinubu,” he said.
He stressed that despite ongoing realignments and internal political shifts, the coalition remains focused, organised and committed to building the unity needed to contest effectively in 2027.
The comments have sparked fresh reactions within political circles, especially given Okonkwo’s previous close relationship with Peter Obi during the 2023 election cycle.
What you should know
Kenneth Okonkwo’s latest comments reflect the growing tension within Nigeria’s opposition camp as political alliances begin to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His criticism of Peter Obi highlights deeper divisions among former allies who once worked together during the 2023 elections. The controversy also underscores the broader challenge facing opposition parties: building a united front capable of challenging the ruling party.
With major figures realigning and coalition talks evolving, the opposition’s ability to resolve internal disagreements may determine whether it can present a credible alternative to voters in the next presidential election cycle.
