Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed actor-turned-politician and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, as his spokesperson.

The appointment comes weeks after Okonkwo publicly criticised the party’s reported choice of vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

Announcing the development in a statement shared on his official X handle on Thursday, Okonkwo expressed gratitude to Atiku for the confidence reposed 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 former Labour Party (LP) presidential campaign spokesperson described the appointment as a testament to Atiku’s leadership style, saying the former vice president embraces dialogue and consensus rather than taking offence when associates express differing views.

“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 stated.

He disclosed that discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress addressed concerns over the political interests of the South-East within the constraints of the Electoral Act, 2026.

“At a dialogue with HE AA and other well-meaning members of the African Democratic Congress, the interests of the South-East have been discussed and guaranteed within the existing challenges posed by the Electoral Act, 2026, and the realities on the ground,” he added.

Okonkwo also appreciated Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Ekene Onwuka, for their efforts toward strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

“My sincere gratitude to my family, fans, and friends for their support and prayers, which God answered in covering my errors and colouring my efforts to pave way for this appointment. I still covet your prayers for wisdom, courage, provision, and protection needed to carry out this challenging post, which will usher in a glorious and great Nigeria,” he said.

The appointment follows Okonkwo’s recent criticism of the ADC’s reported consideration of a South-South candidate for the vice-presidential slot in the 2027 presidential election.

He had warned that such a move could further deepen what he described as the marginalisation of the South-East, arguing that it would continue to deny the region the opportunity to produce either the president or vice president, a situation he noted has persisted since 1999.