Okonkwo Fires Back at Obi, Dismisses ₦5bn Defamation Threat as Unwise

Former actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has reacted strongly to reports that former presidential candidate Peter Obi is preparing a ₦5 billion defamation suit against him, dismissing the move as unnecessary and urging Obi to proceed with legal action if he so wishes. Okonkwo, who previously served as spokesperson during Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, made his remarks in a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday. His response follows reports that Obi, through his legal team, had issued a demand for ₦5 billion in damages over alleged defamatory comments. In his reaction, Okonkwo said he had been made aware of the letter circulating online but had not yet reviewed its contents in detail. He went on to criticise the development, suggesting that Obi should have handled the matter differently and even claiming that the demand was motivated by financial considerations. Okonkwo also referenced his past role in Obi’s campaign, alleging that he personally bore certain expenses during that period, including travel and accommodation costs.

The former campaign spokesperson further warned that if the matter proceeds to court, he may disclose information obtained during his time in Obi’s camp, stressing that his decision would be guided by his conscience and legal considerations. He maintained that initiating a defamation suit against a former spokesperson was, in his view, a questionable decision, adding that he was prepared to defend his statements in court if necessary. Okonkwo also urged Obi and his legal team to follow through with the legal process, insisting he was not intimidated by the threat of litigation. The development marks a fresh escalation in tensions between both men, who were once political allies during the 2023 presidential election but have since fallen out over political differences and public disagreements.

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