Actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has rejected a defamatory allegation made by presidential candidate Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress.
Obi’s legal team claims that Okonkwo made false statements during a television interview and is demanding N5 billion in damages along with a public apology from him.
In a letter dated June 9, 2026, Obi’s lawyers, led by Alex Ejesieme (SAN), accused Okonkwo of making false, malicious and defamatory allegations against their client during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme on Monday, June 8.
“The above statements, in their natural and ordinary meaning, and by necessary implication, falsely and maliciously represent our Client as a person who demands, solicits, organises and collects bribes; who extorts, defrauds and swindles political aspirants of their money; who is a fraudster, a scammer and a dishonest political actor; and who, in concert with others, is engaged in criminal conspiracy and is actively perpetuating criminality,” the letter read.
In response to the letter, Okonkwo in a post on his X stated that he did not receive it, adding that he would provide a formal response after reviewing the contents.
“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 N5bn. Hahaha! 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 wrote.
“I will reply to the letter whenever I have the time to read it later in the day. Please send it here if you have it. 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 stated.
The former spokesperson also warned that any legal action could lead to the disclosure of information he acquired while serving in that role.
“Anyone who decides to sue his former spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise,” he added.
Tribune