Former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesman Kenneth Okonkwo criticises former Vice President Atiku Abubakar following reports that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket may select a vice-presidential candidate from the South-South region for the 2027 election. Writing on X on Monday, Okonkwo calls the reported move “unfortunate,” arguing it would deepen the marginalisation of the South-East. He says the South-East has not produced a president or vice president since 1999, and he describes denying the region the chance to provide either the presidential or vice-presidential nominee as an “unpardonable injustice.”
Okonkwo also references the role of former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, saying party leaders made sacrifices, including relinquishing control of the party, to enable a coalition meant to produce a better Nigeria. He says his only request to Atiku was for a show of commitment to the South-East, including selecting a running mate from the region. Okonkwo adds that if the reports are confirmed, he would not campaign for the presidential ticket in 2027.