Okonkwo reacts to Obi’s N5bn defamation suit, says ex-principal looking for campaign funds

Actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has reacted to reports that former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi is preparing a N5 billion defamation suit against him, describing the move as unwise while daring Obi to proceed with legal action.

Okonkwo, who previously served as spokesperson for Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, made his position known in a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, shortly after reports of the alleged legal threat surfaced.

He said he had been informed about a letter allegedly issued by Obi and his lawyers but insisted he had not yet seen the document.

“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!” he wrote.

Okonkwo further argued that if Obi was seeking financial support for political activities, such requests should have been made privately rather than through legal threats.

“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,” he added.

The former Labour Party chieftain also claimed he personally bore financial costs during his time as Obi’s campaign spokesperson in the 2023 elections, including flight tickets and accommodation expenses.

“I did so when I was his Spokesperson paying for my flight tickets and booking for my hotel accommodation to some of our campaigns,” he said.

Okonkwo also issued a warning to Obi’s legal team, suggesting that any court proceedings could expose sensitive information.

“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,” he stated.

He maintained that it was improper for Obi to sue a former spokesperson, describing the move as a poor judgment.

“Anyone who decides to sue his former Spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise,” he said.

Okonkwo added that he would formally respond after reviewing the alleged letter but insisted the matter should be taken to court if necessary.

“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 development marks a fresh escalation in the strained relationship between both men, who were once close political allies during the 2023 election cycle but have since fallen out over political disagreements.