Amanze Chinonye
The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has filed a defamation suit against actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo at the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division, seeking ₦8 billion in damages over alleged defamatory statements, Prime Business Africa reports.
The suit, marked No. O/1229/2026, stems from comments made by Okonkwo during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 8, 2026, and subsequently republished on X, Facebook and other online platforms.
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According to the court documents, Obi contends that the statements were false, malicious and defamatory, alleging that they were intended to damage his reputation.
The originating process, dated June 25, 2026, directed Okonkwo to enter an appearance before the court within 42 days of being served with the writ. It further states that failure to do so could result in the matter proceeding in his absence.
Obi is seeking ₦5 billion in general damages, ₦2 billion in aggravated damages, and ₦1 billion in exemplary damages, bringing the total claim to ₦8 billion.
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In addition to the monetary claims, the NDC presidential candidate is asking the court to compel Okonkwo to publish a full, unreserved and unequivocal retraction and apology for the alleged defamatory statements.
He is also seeking an order directing the defendant to remove the disputed publications from all platforms under his control and a perpetual injunction restraining him from making similar allegations in the future.
The lawsuit marks a fresh twist in the public fallout between the two former political allies, with the legal battle expected to attract significant political and public attention as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum.
As of the time of filing this report, Kenneth Okonkwo had not publicly responded to the lawsuit or the allegations contained in the court filings.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
