Kenneth Okonkwo Withdraws Support for Atiku, Cites South-East Marginalisation

Former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesman, Kenneth Okonkwo, has announced a withdrawal of his support for the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led coalition backing Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 elections, citing concerns over alleged political marginalisation of the South-East.

Okonkwo, in a post on his X handle, said he was reacting to reports that the ADC had selected its vice-presidential candidate from the South-South region.

He described the development as “unfortunate” if true, arguing that it would further deepen what he called the longstanding exclusion of the South-East from Nigeria’s top political offices.

According to him, the South-East geopolitical zone has not produced a President or Vice President since 1999, and denying the region either position in the 2027 political arrangement would amount to continued marginalisation.

He added that the ADC, founded in 2005 by Ralphs Nwosu from the South-East, was built on principles of fairness and sacrifice, noting that its founder even stepped aside in 2025 for a broader coalition aimed at national renewal.

Okonkwo said his involvement in politics has always been driven by the desire for a more inclusive Nigeria where no region is sidelined.

He also stated that he had personally urged Atiku Abubakar to demonstrate commitment to inclusivity by selecting a running mate from the South-East, adding that such a move would have reflected balance in the coalition’s ticket.

He concluded that if the reports are confirmed, he would not support any presidential ticket in 2027 that does not include either a presidential or vice-presidential candidate from the South-East, saying he wished the coalition well but could not continue his involvement under the current arrangement.