Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has raised alarms over what he describes as politically motivated attempts to derail Atiku’s potential candidacy in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, Okonkwo, who also serves as a spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), claimed that the sudden resurgence of decades-old allegations is a coordinated strategy by political adversaries to block Atiku from contesting.
Addressing Recycled Allegations
The controversy centers on the revival of inquiries regarding Atiku’s past dealings in the United States, specifically investigations from 2005 and 2006 involving former US Congressman William Jefferson. Okonkwo dismissed these claims as recycled election-season propaganda, emphasizing that past investigations thoroughly cleared the former Vice President of any wrongdoing.
‘Atiku Abubakar was completely exonerated,’ Okonkwo stated, questioning why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other interests are resurrecting the issue now. He argued that the timing is highly suspicious, as similar allegations are routinely weaponized against Atiku whenever an election cycle approaches.
Political Motives Behind the Scrutiny
According to Okonkwo, the primary motivation for these attacks is fear of Atiku’s reformative agenda. He asserted that opponents are desperate to keep him off the ballot because they know his leadership would bring genuine relief and economic progress to the country.
‘The only reason they want to stop Atiku Abubakar is because he wants to come and make life better and pleasurable for Nigerians,’ Okonkwo argued, adding that such campaigns would fail to diminish Atiku’s electoral prospects among citizens seeking change.
Debate Challenge and Opposition Coalition
Looking ahead to the 2027 political cycle, Okonkwo revealed that Atiku is highly prepared to defend his vision in a direct face-off with President Bola Tinubu. He confirmed that Atiku has officially challenged the incumbent president to a public debate a statement Okonkwo personally signed to ensure Nigerians can directly compare the programs and plans of the leading contenders.
Furthermore, the spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts to build a formidable opposition alliance ahead of the next general elections. He noted that the movement is successfully drawing together prominent political figures, including Atiku and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, under a united front to challenge the status quo.