Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician as his spokesperson, weeks after the former publicly criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its choice of vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo announced the appointment on Thursday through a statement posted on his official X account. He thanked Atiku for the opportunity and expressed appreciation for the confidence placed in him.
“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 said.
Appointment reflects Atiku’s leadership, says Okonkwo
Okonkwo said his appointment demonstrated Atiku’s willingness to embrace differing opinions rather than punish those who raise 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 revealed that meetings involving Atiku and other leaders of the ADC focused on addressing the interests of the South-East despite challenges posed by the Electoral Act, 2026.
“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 added.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the contributions of Dr Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman , and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr Ekene Onwuka, for their efforts in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
He further thanked his family, supporters and friends for their encouragement and prayers.
“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,” he said.
Appointment follows disagreement over running mate
The appointment comes after Okonkwo openly criticised the ADC’s reported choice of vice-presidential candidate, arguing that it would deepen the South-East’s political exclusion.
He maintained that selecting a candidate from the South-South for the vice-presidential ticket would leave the South-East without representation in either the presidency or vice presidency, a situation he said had existed since 1999.
The ADC later confirmed former as Atiku’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election after Atiku secured the party’s presidential ticket during its nationwide primary.
