Kenneth Okonkwo Says Peter Obi’s ADC Exit Weakened South‑East Position
ADC chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo said that Peter Obi’s departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) placed the South‑East at a disadvantage during the negotiations that produced Rotimi Amaechi as the party’s vice‑presidential candidate.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Thursday, Okonkwo explained that a South‑East representative had initially taken part in the ADC presidential primary process but left before it concluded.
He said the abrupt departure left the region without a strong voice in the talks over the presidential ticket, and when Peter Obi subsequently quit the party, the vacancy became apparent.
Electoral Act Limited ADC’s Options
According to Okonkwo, the ADC considered several prominent South‑East figures, including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and former Finance Minister Dr Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala, for the running‑mate slot.
However, the Electoral Act requires a candidate to have been a party member for at least 21 days before the primary, which ruled out those names because they were no longer ADC members.
This restriction narrowed the party’s choices and ultimately influenced Atiku Abubakar’s decision to pick the nearest viable candidate, Rotimi Amaechi.
Amaechi Chosen Despite Regional Concerns
Okonkwo clarified that his earlier remarks were not a personal attack on Amaechi, noting that the former Rivers State governor is Igbo by ethnicity.
His concern, he said, was about geopolitical representation, pointing out that the South‑East has not produced a president or vice president since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999.
Clarification and Party Unity
After party leaders explained the circumstances behind Amaechi’s selection, Okonkwo said he became satisfied with the choice.
He added that internal consultations are ongoing to address any remaining reservations within the ADC.
Okonkwo concluded optimistically, stating, “We are now one big and happy family. ADC is going to form the next government of Nigeria, and Atiku will be the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by the grace of God.”
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