Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesman for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has stated that Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential flag bearer, walked into a trap by joining the party. Okonkwo alleged that Obi was deliberately lured out of the ADC into the NDC, where he now finds himself trapped.
The actor and lawyer made these remarks during an interview with Channels Television on Thursday, September 3. During the interview, Okonkwo described Atiku as the leader of the opposition, asserting that the former vice president officially challenged President Bola Tinubu to a debate because of this position.
Atiku's Position as Opposition Leader
Okonkwo explained the rationale behind Atiku's claim to leadership: "Atiku challenged Tinubu to a debate officially because he is the leader of the opposition." He further elaborated on the legal status of the NDC, saying, "NDC came into opposition on December 10 through a court order. Legally speaking, it’s a political association and not a party, according to the judgment of the court, and they are now appealing."
The spokesman detailed the opposition's coalition efforts, noting that all opposition parties came together and selected the ADC as their platform. "The opposition came together to form a coalition, and they chose the ADC on July 2, 2026, and all of us were there, including Peter Obi," Okonkwo stated.
Obi's Move to NDC
Okonkwo claimed that Obi's departure from the coalition was orchestrated. "Obi left for the NDC, where he has now entered a trap because they used the NDC to lure him away," he said. He also affirmed the unity of the remaining opposition candidates behind Atiku, stating, "I can tell you that all the opposition candidates have come together and chosen Atiku Abubakar."
The interview comes amid ongoing political realignments, with the NDC appealing a court ruling that classified it as a political association rather than a party. The outcome of that appeal could affect Obi's candidacy and the broader opposition landscape.
