A fresh political war of words has erupted between former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo, with Obi demanding N5 billion in damages and a public apology over alleged defamatory remarks.
According to a report by Punch, Obi’s lawyers, led by Alex Ejesieme (SAN), accused Okonkwo of making false and malicious allegations during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme on June 8.
The legal team said Okonkwo alleged that Obi and leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress demanded bribes from aspirants seeking elective positions and were involved in other questionable activities. The claims were subsequently circulated by media outlets and online platforms.
Obi’s lawyers described the allegations as “false, baseless, malicious, reckless and defamatory,” arguing that they portrayed the former Anambra governor as a fraudster, scammer and participant in criminal conduct.
The legal notice demands a full retraction, an unreserved public apology and payment of N5 billion as general, aggravated and exemplary damages. Okonkwo was also asked to provide a written undertaking to refrain from making further defamatory statements.
Responding on X, Okonkwo dismissed the demand, describing Obi as a “hypocrite” and suggesting the former presidential candidate was looking for campaign funds. He vowed to respond formally after reviewing the letter and challenged Obi to proceed to court.
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