Nigerian actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has officially withdrawn his support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The decision follows the announcement of former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi as the vice-presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 election.

Okonkwo, who previously served as the spokesperson for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign, voiced his decision on social media shortly after learning of Amaechi’s selection. He expressed strong disappointment regarding the ongoing exclusion of the South-East geopolitical zone from the nation's highest political offices, noting that the region has not produced a president or vice president since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

According to Okonkwo, denying the South-East a slot on the presidential or vice-presidential ticket perpetuates political marginalization. He highlighted the history of the ADC, pointing out that its founder, Ralphs Nwosu, hails from the South-East and made significant sacrifices in 2025 to foster a political coalition aimed at improving the country, which should not result in the sidelining of his own people.

Driven by principles of fairness, equity, and inclusion, Okonkwo stated that his political alignment depends on proper regional representation. Having previously advised Atiku to demonstrate his commitment to the South-East through his choice of running mate, Okonkwo concluded that he would not campaign for any 2027 presidential ticket that does not feature an individual from the South-East as either the presidential or vice-presidential candidate.