Peter Obi Sues Kenneth Okonkwo for N5 Billion Over Defamation

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has filed a N5 billion lawsuit against his former ally, Kenneth Okonkwo. Mr Okonkwo is a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The lawsuit is for alleged defamation.

Mr Obi filed the case at the Anambra State High Court in Onitsha on Thursday.

During a Channels TV programme, Mr Okonkwo accused Mr Obi of defrauding and extorting N10 million from NDC House of Representatives aspirants. He also claimed that Mr Obi manipulated the results of the party’s primary election.

Mr Obi, who used to be the governor of Anambra State, had warned that he would take legal action if Mr Okonkwo did not withdraw his allegations. He demanded N5 billion in compensation and a public apology within seven days.

In a letter dated June 16, Mr Okonkwo responded through his lawyer, V. I. Uma. He insisted that he would not back down. He claimed he spoke out after hearing from NDC aspirants who were allegedly defrauded and extorted by the NDC South-east caucus led by Mr Obi.