In a move that has sparked fresh political conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his official spokesperson, despite the latter’s recent public disagreement with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its vice-presidential choice.
The unexpected appointment is being viewed by political observers as a strategic effort to strengthen Atiku’s media team while projecting unity within the opposition camp following weeks of internal debate.
Announcing the development on his official X account, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to Atiku for the confidence reposed in him, describing the appointment as both an honour and a responsibility. He praised the former vice president’s leadership style, saying Atiku encourages dialogue and consensus instead of sidelining associates who openly express differing opinions.
Okonkwo disclosed that discussions with Atiku and other ADC leaders addressed concerns surrounding the political interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026. He said the region’s interests had been acknowledged and assured, despite the legal and political realities facing the party.
The appointment comes only weeks after Okonkwo openly criticised reports suggesting that the ADC was considering a vice-presidential candidate from the South-South. He had warned that such a move could further sideline the South-East, a region that has not produced either Nigeria’s president or vice president since 1999.
Political analysts believe Atiku’s decision to hand Okonkwo such a prominent role despite previous disagreements sends a message that the opposition is seeking internal reconciliation ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2027 presidential election.
With campaigns gradually taking shape, the appointment is likely to boost Atiku’s communication strategy while reassuring supporters that differing opinions within the coalition can be resolved through dialogue rather than division.
As the race toward 2027 intensifies, all eyes will be on whether this latest political alliance strengthens the ADC’s chances of mounting a formidable challenge in the next presidential election.
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