In a recent interview on Channels Television, Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, spoke about political loyalty, shifting alliances, and the internal contradictions he believes exist within Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During the interview, Okonkwo stated, “After Atiku brought you into national politics, you said he is not qualified to be President.” He made the remark while reflecting on political relationships within the opposition space and what he described as inconsistencies in how some political actors assess former allies once they change political direction.
Okonkwo explained that Nigerian politics is often shaped by alliances formed during election cycles, but argued that such relationships should not be dismissed or reinterpreted when political interests shift. According to him, consistency and political gratitude are important elements that help build trust within party structures and coalitions.
He further stated that many of the tensions within the opposition are rooted in disagreements over ambition, credibility, and eligibility, rather than purely ideological differences. The ADC chieftain maintained that these internal contradictions weaken the opposition’s ability to present a unified front against the ruling party.
Okonkwo also discussed the broader implications of political messaging in Nigeria, noting that public statements made by politicians about their former allies often influence voter perception and party cohesion. He argued that such remarks can either strengthen or damage coalition-building efforts depending on how they are managed.
He emphasized that the African Democratic Congress is attempting to build a more disciplined coalition structure where internal disagreements do not derail collective goals. According to him, the party intends to prioritize unity after internal contests, ensuring that all members rally behind whoever emerges as the party’s standard bearer.
Okonkwo concluded by urging political actors to adopt a more consistent approach to public commentary about allies and rivals, stressing that trust, stability, and long-term cooperation are essential for any opposition platform seeking to challenge the incumbent government in 2027.
