Kenneth Okonkwo, the newly appointed spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has reiterated his criticism of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, saying the former Anambra State governor lacks the decisiveness required to lead Nigeria.
Speaking on his decision to part ways with Obi politically, Okonkwo said he had publicly announced in July that he would no longer serve as Obi’s spokesperson because he believed the former presidential candidate was not decisive enough.
“I made it public in July that I said I wasn’t speaking for Peter Obi anymore because he is not decisive. I have seen certain qualities in him that will make him unfit to be president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Okonkwo said.
The comments mark another chapter in the deteriorating relationship between the actor-turned-politician and Obi, whose presidential campaign Okonkwo actively supported during the 2023 general election. Okonkwo served as one of the official spokespersons for the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Council before later distancing himself from the Labour Party and its leadership.
Okonkwo has, in recent months, repeatedly criticised Obi’s leadership style, arguing that his perceived indecisiveness influenced his decision to withdraw his support. The latest remarks come shortly after his appointment as spokesperson to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general election.
Peter Obi has not publicly responded to Okonkwo’s latest comments. However, the former Anambra governor and his supporters have previously rejected criticisms of his leadership, maintaining that his approach to politics is guided by principle, consultation and adherence to democratic processes.
The exchange underscores the growing political divisions among key opposition figures as preparations intensify for the 2027 presidential election.
