Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has appointed actor turned politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson ahead of the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo announced his appointment in a statement shared on his official X page on Thursday, thanking Atiku for entrusting him with the role.
“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 wrote.
The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s choice of vice-presidential candidate, expressing concerns that the decision did not adequately protect the interests of the South-East.
Despite his earlier reservations, Okonkwo said his engagement with Atiku and other leaders of the party had helped address those concerns.
“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,” he stated.
He added that discussions with Atiku and senior members of the ADC had produced assurances on the place of the South-East within the party’s plans.
“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 said.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the contributions of Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Ekene Onwuka, for their efforts toward strengthening the party ahead of the next presidential election.
He further expressed appreciation to his supporters, saying their prayers and encouragement had contributed to his emergence.
“My sincere gratitude to my family, fans, and friends for their support and prayers… 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 said.
The appointment follows the ADC’s emergence of Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election, with former Rotimi Amaechi later selected as his running mate.
