During the interview, Okonkwo stated, “If ADC refuses to zone its presidential ticket to the Southeast, I will campaign for APC.” He made the remark while discussing what he described as the need for fairness and political balance in the allocation of presidential tickets among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.………
Okonkwo explained that his position is driven by what he considers long-standing political imbalance affecting the Southeast in Nigeria’s democratic history. According to him, the region has not had a fair opportunity to produce a president in the current democratic dispensation, and political parties must take deliberate steps to address that concern.
He further argued that zoning remains a critical instrument for maintaining unity in a diverse country like Nigeria. The ADC chieftain maintained that ignoring such arrangements could lead to political dissatisfaction and weaken trust in the democratic process, especially among underrepresented regions.
Okonkwo also emphasized that political parties must be consistent in their principles, stating that fairness should not be applied selectively depending on which region holds power at any given time. He added that zoning decisions should reflect justice, equity, and national inclusion rather than convenience or political advantage.
He concluded by warning that political alignment decisions in 2027 will be influenced by how parties handle issues of regional representation, stressing that he would support any platform—regardless of affiliation—that ensures the Southeast is given a fair opportunity in Nigeria’s highest political office.
