As political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the lawmaker representing Idemili North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Harris Okonkwo, has expressed optimism that former Anambra State governor Peter Obi will secure the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Okonkwo made the remarks while speaking with journalists in Ojoto during a medical outreach organised by the Annie Okonkwo Foundation for people in his constituency.
The federal legislator, who recently left the Labour Party to join the ADC, stated that he and his supporters are determined to work towards ensuring that Obi becomes the party’s presidential candidate.
“I believe that Nigerians know what is good for them. The good thing is that there will be no more delegates for the primaries, as it is going to be either by consensus or direct primaries,” he said.
“So the people are the ones who will decide when it comes to selecting the presidential candidate.”
Okonkwo also faulted aspects of the recently amended Electoral Act (Nigeria), arguing that certain provisions weaken the principle of freedom of association.
“Truth be told, freedom of association and freedom of political participation should not be tampered with. I argued against it, but unfortunately we were in the minority and the majority had its way,” he said.
He explained that although the law may restrict individuals from being members of more than one political party, it should not stop people from supporting candidates outside their parties.
“One could belong to one party but decide to support a candidate in another party. There should be no limit to freedom of association,” he added.
Okonkwo further raised concerns about what he described as poor management of the country’s resources, urging leaders to focus more on citizens’ welfare.
“Our concern should be the way the Nigerian government manages our resources and the level of extravagance being exhibited at the expense of the people. I believe that in the long run, truth will prevail,” he said.