Politcs
Okonkwo Fires Back at Obi Over N5bn Defamation Threat, Dares Him to Go to Court
The war of words between former presidential candidate Peter Obi and his one-time campaign spokesperson.
The war of words between former presidential candidate Peter Obi and his one-time campaign spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, has taken a new turn, with the actor-turned-politician dismissing the N5 billion defamation claim reportedly filed against him and challenging Obi to pursue the matter in court.
Okonkwo reacted on Wednesday through a post on his X account, following reports that Obi had demanded damages and threatened legal action over comments he considered defamatory.
The former Labour Party chieftain said he had become aware of a letter allegedly issued by Obi's legal team but had not yet had the opportunity to review its contents.
Mocking the reported demand for N5 billion, Okonkwo suggested that if Obi required funds for political activities, he could seek assistance directly rather than resorting to legal threats.
According to him, he personally spent money in support of Obi's 2023 presidential campaign while serving as spokesperson, including covering the costs of some of his travels and accommodation during campaign activities.
Okonkwo further hinted that he possesses information from his time within Obi's campaign circle, warning that such details could become public if the dispute eventually ends up before a court.
He maintained that taking legal action against a former spokesperson was a questionable decision and insisted that he had nothing to fear from any lawsuit.
The politician said he would issue a formal response after studying the letter but urged Obi and his lawyers not to abandon the matter halfway.
He also accused Obi of attempting to intimidate him and expressed confidence that legal proceedings would expose facts he believes the public deserves to know.
The latest confrontation highlights the growing rift between the two former political allies, who worked closely during the 2023 presidential election but have since found themselves on opposing sides of several political debates.
Their once cordial relationship has steadily deteriorated in recent months, with both men publicly exchanging criticisms over issues relating to party politics and leadership.
