A dramatic twist has emerged in Nigeria’s opposition politics as Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), declared that former Labour Party ally Peter Obi betrayed him, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recognized his value and entrusted him with a key role ahead of the 2027 elections.
Okonkwo made the explosive remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, less than 24 hours after Atiku officially appointed him as his spokesperson.
The Nollywood actor-turned-politician said his decision to part ways with Obi was not sudden, revealing that he had publicly distanced himself from the former Anambra State governor in 2024 after concluding that Obi lacked the decisiveness needed to govern Nigeria.
According to Okonkwo, he openly informed Nigerians that he was no longer speaking on Obi’s behalf because he believed the former presidential candidate did not possess the leadership qualities required to become President.
“I’ve seen in him certain qualities that make him unfit to be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I made it public,” he said.
Okonkwo insisted that after making his position known, he moved on with his political career and focused on public affairs analysis, stressing that it was Peter Obi—not him—who betrayed their relationship.
The comments come at a sensitive period as opposition parties continue to reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Atiku strengthening his media team and political structure following his emergence as the ADC’s presidential candidate.
Political observers believe Okonkwo’s remarks could further deepen divisions within the opposition camp, especially among supporters of both Atiku and Obi, whose political futures remain closely watched.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, the latest exchange underscores the growing battle for influence and leadership within Nigeria’s opposition, with more political realignments expected in the coming months.
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