From Critic to Campaign Voice: Atiku Appoints Kenneth Okonkwo as Spokesperson

Former Labour Party chieftain and actor Kenneth Okonkwo has been named spokesperson to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a move that formally brings him into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential campaign ahead of the 2027 election.

Okonkwo disclosed the appointment in a statement posted on his verified X handle on Thursday, describing the role as a privilege and thanking Atiku 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 wrote.

The appointment comes after weeks of conversations within the ADC over the party’s direction and representation of the South-East, issues that had previously drawn public comments from Okonkwo.

In his statement, he said those engagements resulted in assurances that the interests of the region had been accommodated despite the constraints of the Electoral Act, 2026, and other political realities.

Rather than dwell on earlier differences, Okonkwo said Atiku’s response was to encourage dialogue and seek common ground.

“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 also acknowledged the roles played by Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, whom he credited with helping to strengthen the party and its campaign structure.

Okonkwo concluded by thanking his family, supporters and associates for their encouragement, while asking for continued prayers as he assumes responsibility for communicating Atiku’s message ahead of the 2027 presidential election.