Veteran Nollywood actor and former Labour Party spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, has sparked renewed political debate following his comments on Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his perceived readiness for Nigeria’s leadership demands.
Okonkwo suggested that governing a country like Nigeria, which he described as deeply challenged, requires a tougher and more confrontational leadership style. According to him, Obi’s personality and approach may not match what the current political climate demands.
He also downplayed fears that opposition coalitions could be weakened by individual choices or public statements made by politicians within their ranks.
Commenting on Obi’s political history, Okonkwo pointed to his past movement between political parties, arguing that such decisions alone should not be used to judge a politician’s capability or moral standing. However, he questioned the reasoning behind those transitions.
He claimed Obi had previously justified his party movements as a preference for peaceful environments rather than conflict-driven spaces, a stance Okonkwo believes raises concerns about his ability to handle national pressure.
In his words:
“I said I will not speak for a man who even if he wins and Nigerians give him the vote, does not have the capacity to even secure his own victory. The coalition will not be affected in anyway. Peter Obi changed parties three times within six months.
That is his nature but let me say this: Changing parties is not what questions your capacity, your competence or your character, it is the reason you adduced for changing party. What is the reason he gave? He said I don’t like challenges, I don’t like tr0uble, I like to run away to where there is peace…
I now ask how can this same man ask Nigerians to entrust themselves in his care knowing how challenged the country is? How can a man who is running away from challenges be able to face the challenges we are facing in Nigeria today? I am sorry Peter Obi’s temperament and capacity is incompatible with the requirement of Nigeria of today. So the ADC Cannot possibly be missing anything.”
