Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, warned that Peter Obi may lose support across the South-East in the 2027 presidential election. He made the prediction during an interview on Channels Television on Thursday. Okonkwo argued that the slogan associated with some of Obi’s supporters threatened the former Anambra State governor’s chances in the region.
Kenneth Okonkwo described the “Obi or nothing” slogan as an abomination in Igbo land. He explained that the slogan went against the Igbo cultural principle of “Somadina,” which promotes collective progress and success for all.
“First of all, that slogan is an abomination culturally in Igbo land,” Okonkwo stated. He added, “In Igbo land, there is something we call somadina, it means I will not be the only person that will thrive, I will not be the only person that will succeed, I will not be the only person that will live. And now, Peter Obi or nothing.”
Kenneth Okonkwo insisted that Peter Obi would lose the entire South-East if the current trend continued. He noted that the rigid position alienated other politicians and voters who traditionally supported multiple candidates from the region. Moreover, he stressed that Igbo people valued broader participation rather than exclusive loyalty to one individual.
Kenneth Okonkwo revealed he supported Peter Obi in 2023 because he wanted a president from the South-East. However, he left the Labour Party later and joined the African Democratic Congress. He maintained that his comments aimed at ensuring Nigeria produced a strong leader, not personal rivalry.
