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Atiku Abubakar Appoints Actor-Politician Okonkwo as Spokesperson
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Atiku Abubakar Appoints Actor-Politician Okonkwo as Spokesperson

July 2, 2026 By BeatzHive Editorial 2 min read

Atiku Abubakar Names Actor-Turned-Politician Okonkwo as Official Spokesperson

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed Nollywood actor and politician Okonkwo as his spokesperson, a move that has drawn attention given that it follows a period of open disagreement between the two figures. Okonkwo confirmed the development himself on Thursday via a statement shared on his official X account, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity extended to him.

The Appointment and What Okonkwo Said

In his announcement, Okonkwo credited God for the role and thanked Atiku — whom he referred to as “HE AA” — for the trust placed in him. Beyond the personal acknowledgement, he used the occasion to speak to what he believes the appointment says about Atiku’s character as a leader, describing him as someone who chooses dialogue and compromise over grievance when associates raise genuine concerns.

Okonkwo also shed light on ongoing internal discussions within the African Democratic Congress, revealing that conversations involving Atiku and other senior party figures have centred on safeguarding the political interests of the South-East region. He noted that these discussions have taken place against the backdrop of constraints introduced by the Electoral Act, 2026, and current political realities on the ground.

He additionally recognised the contributions of Dr Kashim Imam, a former ADC National Chairman, and Dr Ekene Onwuka, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, crediting both men with playing meaningful roles in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. He also extended warm appreciation to his family, supporters, and friends for their prayers and encouragement throughout the process.

The Background: A Public Disagreement That Led Here

The appointment carries added significance when viewed in context. Weeks before being named spokesperson, Okonkwo had publicly criticised the ADC over its reported selection of a vice-presidential candidate from the South-South region for the 2027 ticket. His argument was that such a choice would leave the South-East with no representation at either the presidential or vice-presidential level — a situation he said has persisted since 1999.

Despite that friction, Atiku subsequently secured the ADC’s presidential ticket through the party’s nationwide primary, with a former official later confirmed as his running mate for the 2027 election. The decision to bring Okonkwo into his communications team, rather than distance himself from a vocal critic, appears consistent with the spirit of dialogue that Okonkwo himself described in his statement.

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