Okonkwo responds to Obi’s N5 bn defamation lawsuit over campaign funding claims

Actor‑turned‑politician Kenneth Okonkwo has responded to reports that former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi is preparing a N5 billion defamation lawsuit against him. Okonkwo described the alleged legal action as unwise and challenged Obi to proceed with the court filing.

Okonkwo, who served as Obi’s spokesperson during the 2023 election campaign, posted his reaction on X on Wednesday.

According to the statement, Okonkwo was informed of a letter—allegedly sent by Obi and his lawyers—yet he has not yet read its contents. He wrote:

“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!”

“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.”

Okonkwo also highlighted that he personally incurred expenses while acting as Obi’s spokesperson, noting that he paid for his own flight tickets and hotel accommodation during campaign events.

He warned that Obi’s lawyers should be prepared to disclose any information that may emerge if the dispute proceeds: “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, but which by my conscience I have not shared with anyone.”

Okonkwo said that suing a former spokesperson for defamation was a poor decision: “Anyone who decides to sue his former Spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise.”

He added that he would respond formally after reviewing the letter and urged Obi and his legal team to proceed with the case. “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 exchange adds a new chapter to the strained relationship between Obi and Okonkwo, who were allies during the 2023 presidential election but have since publicly disagreed on a range of political issues.

The post “You’re looking for campaign funds  —  Okonkwo reacts to Obi’s N5bn defamation suit” first appeared on Vanguard News.