Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesperson for African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has claimed that Peter Obi was “lured” away from the ADC into the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), where he is now allegedly trapped.

Okonkwo, an actor and lawyer, made the claim during an interview with Channels Television on Thursday, September 3, while discussing the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He also described former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the leader of the opposition, arguing that this was why Atiku had formally challenged President Bola Tinubu to a presidential debate.

“Atiku challenged Tinubu to a debate officially because he is the leader of the opposition.

“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.” he said.

Okonkwo explains Atiku’s opposition claim

Explaining his position, Okonkwo said opposition politicians had initially come together to form a coalition and selected the ADC as their platform.

“Why did I say that Atiku is the leader of the opposition? 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.

“Obi left for the NDC, where he has now entered a trap because they used the NDC to lure him away.

“I can tell you that all the opposition candidates have come together and chosen Atiku Abubakar.”

Okonkwo’s comments have generated reactions amid ongoing political realignments and coalition-building ahead of the 2027 elections.

His claims regarding the leadership of the opposition and Peter Obi’s alleged decision to leave the ADC were presented as his own position during the interview.