Politics
2027: Kenneth Okonkwo Calls Tinubu ‘Absentee President,’ Questions Re-election Bid
ADC campaign spokesperson Kenneth Okonkwo criticises President Bola Tinubu over his public engagement, reported campaign plans and handling of government finances ahead of the 2027 election.
Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s 2027 presidential campaign, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his public engagement and questioned his suitability for re-election.
Okonkwo made the remarks in a statement posted on his X account on Saturday, October 17, 2026, accusing the President of failing to engage Nigerians sufficiently on his policies and plans for the country.
The ADC chieftain questioned reports that Tinubu could limit his re-election campaign to 12 of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He argued that such an approach would deny many Nigerians the opportunity to hear directly from the President as he seeks another term in office.
Okonkwo also criticised Tinubu over what he described as a lack of regular interviews with independent media organisations and limited participation in public debates with political opponents.
He described Tinubu as an “absentee President” and argued that a leader seeking re-election should be prepared to explain his policies and defend his record before the electorate.
Turning to the economy, Okonkwo raised concerns about the Federal Government’s debt obligations and revenue position.
He claimed that the government spent N7.7 trillion on interest payments in the first half of 2026, compared with total revenue of N6.2 trillion over the same period.
Based on those figures, Okonkwo argued that interest payments exceeded government revenue by N1.5 trillion, describing the situation as evidence of serious financial difficulties.
The figures and his characterisation of Nigeria’s financial position remain claims requiring confirmation against official fiscal records.
Okonkwo also criticised the administration’s overall performance, maintaining that Tinubu had not delivered sufficiently on his promises to Nigerians.
His comments come amid growing exchanges between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties as preparations continue for the 2027 general election.
Okonkwo serves as a spokesperson for former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the ADC presidential candidate, whose campaign has also criticised the reported plan to limit Tinubu’s nationwide campaign engagements.