Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), expressed concerns that Peter Obi's abrupt departure from the party left the South-East region at a disadvantage and caused confusion during the selection of Rotimi Amaechi as the vice presidential candidate.

He explained that a representative from the South-East had initially shown interest in the ADC presidential race but exited before the process concluded, creating a vacancy that couldn't be easily filled due to the Electoral Act's restrictions.

Names like Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala were considered but excluded because they weren't ADC members for at least 21 days before the primary.

Okonkwo clarified his earlier comments weren't against Amaechi personally but were about geopolitical balance, as the South-East hasn't produced a president or vice president since 1999.He expressed satisfaction with the party's decision and confidence that ADC will form the next Nigerian government with Atiku as president.The article highlights the political ramifications of Obi's exit and the challenges faced by the South-East in ADC's leadership transition.