Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has appointed Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson for the 2027 presidential campaign.
A copy of the appointment letter shared by Okonkwo on his X page on Thursday showed that 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 reads.
The letter stated that the appointment reflects Atiku’s confidence in Okonkwo’s “competence, public communication skills, integrity, political judgment, and ability to represent” his public positions in a professional and responsible manner.
“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 letter added.
Reacting to the appointment, Okonkwo thanked Atiku, describing the decision as a reflection of the former vice-president’s democratic credentials.
“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.
“This appointment speaks volume of the democratic credentials of HE AA. 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.”
Okonkwo said discussions with Atiku and other ADC members had addressed and protected the interests of the south-east “within the existing challenges posed by the Electoral Act, 2026, and the realities on the ground”.
He also thanked Ralph Nwosu and Ekene Onwuka for their roles in the coalition and his appointment.
Okonkwo expressed gratitude to his family, friends and supporters, asking for prayers for “wisdom, courage, provision, and protection needed to carry out the challenging post which will usher in a glorious and great Nigeria”.
The 2027 election will mark Atiku’s seventh attempt at the presidency and the fourth time he will appear on the ballot as the presidential candidate of a political party.
Okonkwo previously served as spokesperson for Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election but recently fell out with the former Anambra governor over an ongoing defamation suit.