NDC Presidential candidate Peter Obi, has sued his former associate, Kenneth Okonkwo, for N8 billion over his recent defamatory statements.
The filing circulating online alleged that Okonkwo, an ADC Chieftain levelled corruption allegations against Obi on a TV show on a channel. Okonkwo alleged at the time that Obi demanded N10 million bribes from NDC aspirants and led a criminal gang.
In response, Peter Obi asked Okonkwo to apologize and retract his statement or face a N5 billion lawsuit. However, Okonkwo responded that he was ready to provide evidence of his allegations if sued. As such, he declined the request to retract his allegations, instead doubling down on them.
Consequently, Obi is now seeking N5 billion in general damages for the injury caused to his reputation by Okonkwo’s statement. He is also seeking aggravated damages of N2 billion and exemplary damages totaling N1 billion.
Recall that Okonkwo served as Obi’s spokesperson at the Labour Party for the 2023 Presidential election. Both individuals had a falling out in 2024, causing them to change parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
