Kenneth Okonkwo said he joined APC because of his Constitutional vow as a true Progressive and Patriot, to eliminate all forms of discrimination and social injustice
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian actor, Kenneth Okonkwo has resigned his membership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over the decision of the party to field two Muslims for the 2023 presidential election.
The veteran Nollywood actor made the announcement through a letter tendered to the APC Chairman of Nkpunano Ward in Nsukka, Enugu State, on Monday, July 11.
According to Kenneth, he joined APC because of his Constitutional vow as a true Progressive and Patriot, to eliminate all forms of discrimination and social injustice in Nigeria.
The thespian went on to say he had to leave the party because it has now jettisoned the principle on which it was founded.
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“Part of the letter read, “Recall that joined APC because of its Constitutional vow, as true Progressives and Patriots, to eliminate all forms of discrimination and social injustice in Nigeria, thereby building the nation a nation which will guarantee equal opportunity for all and ensure mutual and peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.
“Those ideals are now alien to the APC, with their unfortunate decision to paint our Muslim brothers in had light, by insinuating that the Muslims in Nigeria will not accept or vote for a Northern Christian as Vice-President to pair with a Southern Muslim.
“If Muslims could vote voluntarily for Southern Christian Presidents, it is then a fallacy to insinuate that they cannot accept a Northern Christian Vice-President. This will permanently destroy the political viability of Northern Christians in Nigeria, if allowed to stand.”
Prior to his resignation, Mr Kenneth was the convener of the Campaign for Equity and Justice in Nigeria, having served as a member of APC Presidential Campaign Council.
This development is coming after another chieftain of APC, Daniel Bwala, resigned his membership of the party over the choice of former Governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima.
Bwala argued that the APC has chosen “politics over unity” and ignored the values of “inclusivity, tolerance, common prosperity, and diversity.”
Bwala in a tweet said: “Tonight I officially resigned my membership of @OfficialAPCN on principles and conviction that I hold so dear. At this time of our national existence, our efforts and energy should gravitate towards uniting our people.”