Atiku Picks Kenneth Okonkwo as Voice of 2027 Presidential Campaign
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has named Nollywood actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson for the 2027 presidential election campaign.
The appointment was announced in a letter shared by Okonkwo on his X account on Thursday, July 2, 2026. According to the letter, the appointment followed Atiku’s emergence as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 general election.
“I am pleased to offer you an appointment as my Spokesperson for the 2027 General Elections in Nigeria, following my victory as the Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC),” the letter stated.
Atiku noted that the appointment was based on his confidence in Okonkwo’s competence, communication abilities, integrity, political judgment and capacity to professionally represent his positions and public engagements.
“While congratulating you on this appointment, I look forward to your valuable contribution to the campaign and to the advancement of democratic engagement in Nigeria,” the former Vice-President added.
Responding to the appointment, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to Atiku, describing the decision as evidence of the former Vice-President’s democratic values and leadership style.
“I give God all the glory to be appointed by His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, as his Spokesperson. I thank H.E. AA for the immense confidence reposed in me,” he said.
According to him, the appointment reflects Atiku’s willingness to embrace dialogue and differing opinions rather than punish associates who express concerns over decisions.
“This appointment speaks volumes of the democratic credentials of H.E. AA. Rather than pick offence against any of his associates for expressing genuine reservations of any action taken, H.E. AA always opts for dialogue and compromise that will engender solutions to problems,” Okonkwo said.
The former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesperson also disclosed that discussions involving Atiku and members of the ADC coalition had addressed concerns relating to the interests of the South-East despite limitations created by the Electoral Act, 2026, and prevailing political realities.
Okonkwo further appreciated Ralph Nwosu, former National Chairman of the ADC, and Ekene Onwuka, Senior Special Assistant to Atiku on Special Duties, for the roles they played in the coalition talks and his eventual appointment.
He also thanked his family, friends and supporters, while requesting prayers for wisdom, courage, provision and protection to enable him succeed in the role.
*Background*
The 2027 presidential election will mark the seventh time Atiku Abubakar will seek Nigeria’s highest office and the fourth occasion he will appear on the ballot as the presidential candidate of a political party.
Although he has contested for the presidency six times, he only appeared on the ballot as a presidential candidate in 2007, 2019 and 2023.
Okonkwo previously served as spokesperson for Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election.
The actor and politician, however, recently fell out with the former Anambra State Governor, who has since filed a lawsuit against him over alleged defamatory remarks.
