Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as the spokesperson for his 2027 presidential election campaign following his emergence as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In an appointment letter dated July 2, 2026, Atiku said the decision was based on his confidence in Okonkwo’s competence, communication skills, integrity, political judgment and ability to effectively represent his campaign.

Accepting the appointment, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to Atiku for the confidence reposed in him, describing the move as a demonstration of the former vice-president’s democratic credentials. He said discussions with Atiku and other ADC leaders had addressed concerns over the interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act 2026.

Brief:
Okonkwo, who served as spokesperson for Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, recently parted ways with the former Labour Party candidate. He is also currently facing an ₦8 billion defamation suit filed by Obi over alleged defamatory remarks. Atiku’s 2027 bid will be his seventh attempt at Nigeria’s presidency and his fourth appearance on the ballot as a presidential candidate.