Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has described the renewed corruption allegations against the former vice president as politically motivated.
Okonkwo made the statement on Thursday while appearing on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, where he addressed renewed scrutiny of Atiku’s past dealings in the United States.
The controversy is linked to investigations conducted in 2005 and 2006 involving former US Congressman William Jefferson.
Okonkwo, a lawyer and former Labour Party spokesperson, dismissed the allegations, insisting that previous investigations did not establish that Atiku requested or received a bribe from Jefferson.
He maintained that Atiku had been completely exonerated and questioned the timing of the renewed focus on the matter as Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election.
According to him, similar allegations have repeatedly resurfaced against Atiku whenever an election draws near.
Okonkwo also criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its continued interest in the matter, arguing that the development could have political implications ahead of the election.
He alleged that political forces were seeking to prevent Atiku from contesting the 2027 presidential election because of his growing political influence.
“The only reason they want to stop Atiku Abubakar is because he wants to come and make life better and pleasurable for Nigerians,” he said.
Okonkwo further disclosed that Atiku was ready for a public debate with President Bola Tinubu, saying the ADC candidate had already challenged the president to discuss their respective plans for Nigeria.
He said Nigerians deserved the opportunity to hear directly from the major presidential contenders and compare their policies and programmes.
The ADC spokesperson also defended the opposition coalition, saying the party had provided a platform for prominent opposition figures, including Atiku and Peter Obi, to work together ahead of the 2027 election.
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