I never opposed Amaechi’s nomination, says Okonkwo

Kenneth Okonkwo, a spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has refuted claims that he opposed the nomination of former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi as the party's vice-presidential candidate. Okonkwo stated that his previous remarks on the vice-presidential slot were driven by a geopolitical preference for a South-East candidate, rather than personal opposition to Amaechi.

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I do not know where you got that from.

Speaking on Channels Television, Okonkwo explained that while he had advocated for the vice-presidential ticket to come from the South-East, he understood the constraints imposed by the Electoral Act 2026. He noted that some preferred candidates from the South-East were not registered members of the party, limiting the options. Okonkwo also mentioned that Peter Obi's departure from the party had created confusion within the South-East.

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First and foremost, he is the choice of the party and everybody that is a loyal party member.

Okonkwo highlighted Amaechi's significant showing of over 500 votes in the party's presidential primary, emphasizing that his supporters should not be alienated. However, he maintained that the party leadership should have consulted stakeholders from the South-East before finalizing the vice-presidential candidate. He expressed that informing stakeholders about the constraints would have allowed them to better communicate with their constituents.

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I said I expected that the vice president should come from the South-East. It was a geopolitical expression, not directed at anybody personally. I also understood the limitations within the Electoral Act 2026.

He also disclosed that Atiku Abubakar was abroad when the vice-presidential candidate was initially announced and began consultations upon his return to Nigeria. Okonkwo's statements aim to clarify his position and reconcile his earlier advocacy with the party's final decision.

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Rotimi Amaechi, Hayatu-deen, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi were the people showing interest in contesting the presidential election.