Actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has reacted to reports of an N5 billion defamation suit reportedly being prepared against him by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. In his response, Okonkwo Reacts to Obi by describing the move as unwise and challenging the former presidential candidate to proceed with the legal action.
The dispute follows reports that Peter Obi had threatened legal action over alleged defamatory statements made by Okonkwo, with a demand for N5 billion in damages. The development marks a further strain in the relationship between both men, who worked closely during the 2023 presidential election campaign. Okonkwo previously served as spokesperson for Obi’s campaign before both figures publicly parted ways and began expressing differing political views.
In a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, Okonkwo said he had been informed of a legal letter allegedly sent by Obi and his lawyers but had not yet reviewed it. He dismissed the reported demand, saying: “It has been brought to my notice that there is a letter circulating online from the hypocrite, Peter Obi, and his Lawyers that I should pay him N5b. Hahaha!”
As Okonkwo Reacts to Obi, he suggested that the legal threat was unnecessary and made a controversial remark implying political motives.
“If Peter Obi is looking for money to campaign, he should privately ask me for assistance, not come from extortion, and I will help him,” he said. Okonkwo also claimed that he personally funded aspects of his participation in the 2023 campaign, including travel expenses.
“I did so when I was his Spokesperson paying for my flight tickets and booking for my hotel accommodation to some of our campaigns,” he stated. He further warned that Obi’s legal representatives should take responsibility for any disclosures that may arise if the matter proceeds in court.
“Let me sound this note of warning, the Lawyers must take responsibility for any information I may have to divulge, which I acquired as a spokesperson,” he said.
The former campaign spokesman also criticised the decision to pursue legal action. “Anyone who decides to sue his former Spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise,” Okonkwo said.
He added that he would formally respond after reviewing the alleged letter, while urging Obi and his legal team to proceed with the court case if they deem it necessary. “It will be a shame to Peter Obi and his Lawyers if they do not take this case to court. I don’t have time or patience for scammers,” he said.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between former political allies of the 2023 presidential election. Okonkwo reactsion to Obi controversy may further deepen divisions within political circles linked to the Labour Party campaign structure. It also raises questions about internal disagreements among former campaign figures and how such disputes are being managed publicly.
