You’re looking for campaign funds — Okonkwo reacts to Obi’s N5bn defamation suit
Okonkwo Responds to Obi’s N5 Billion Defamation Suit
Actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has reacted to a reported N5 billion defamation lawsuit being prepared against him by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. Okonkwo characterized the action as unwise and challenged Obi to proceed to court.
In a statement shared on his X account on Wednesday, Okonkwo, who previously served as a spokesperson for Obi’s presidential campaign, addressed the legal threat following claims of defamatory remarks, with Obi demanding the substantial damages.
Okonkwo acknowledged receiving information about a letter allegedly from Obi and his legal team, but he stated he had not reviewed its contents. “It has been brought to my notice that there is a letter circulating online from Peter Obi and his lawyers that I should pay him N5 billion. Hahaha!” he wrote.
He suggested that if Obi is seeking campaign funds, he should approach him privately instead of resorting to legal action. “I will help him,” Okonkwo added.
The former spokesperson claimed to have incurred personal expenses during the campaign, including costs for flights and hotel accommodations. He cautioned that Obi’s legal representation should be prepared for the consequences of pursuing the case.
“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 I have not shared with anyone due to my conscience,” Okonkwo stated, emphasizing that suing a former spokesperson over defamation is a poor decision.
He expressed his intention to respond formally after reviewing the alleged letter and urged Obi and his legal team to move forward with the case. “It will be a shame for Peter Obi and his lawyers if they do not take this case to court. I don’t have time or patience for scammers,” he remarked.
This exchange highlights the ongoing deterioration in the relationship between Obi and Okonkwo, who were once political allies during the 2023 presidential election but have since publicly diverged on several issues.
