Why Atiku’s running mate is not from South-East — Kenneth Okonkwo

Kenneth Okonkwo, the campaign spokesperson for African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has publicly addressed recent reports regarding his alleged opposition to the selection of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi as the party’s vice-presidential running mate. Speaking on Channels Television, Okonkwo clarified that his previous criticisms were focused on geopolitical representation rather than a personal objection to Amaechi’s candidacy.

“I do not know where you got that from,” Okonkwo stated when asked to clarify his stance. He emphasized his commitment to the party’s decision, noting, “First and foremost, he is the choice of the party and everybody that is a loyal party member.” He explained that his earlier advocacy for a South-East candidate was based on a desire for regional representation, which he felt was necessary to balance the ticket.

Okonkwo highlighted the legal constraints he had cited previously, referencing the Electoral Act 2026, which restricted the pool of potential candidates to those who were party members at least 21 days before the primary. He argued that the current political landscape, particularly following Peter Obi’s departure to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), necessitated a candidate who could effectively campaign across the country.

“Rotimi Amaechi, Hayatu-deen, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, these were the people that were showing interest to contest the presidential election, and then when Peter Obi left, South-East was thrown into confusion,” Okonkwo noted. He defended Amaechi’s selection by pointing to the significant support the former governor garnered during the party primaries, asserting that “you cannot alienate” those stakeholders.

Regarding the internal communication process, Okonkwo suggested that the party leadership could have managed stakeholder expectations more effectively. “What I was agitating is that even if you have constraints, you ought to get the people of South-East and sit down with them,” he said. He further credited Atiku Abubakar for his democratic approach, noting that the presidential candidate initiated a series of consultations with various party stakeholders immediately upon his return to Nigeria to ensure consensus.