Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has filed an ₦8 billion defamation lawsuit against Kenneth Okonkwo over comments allegedly made during a June 8, 2026, television interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily. The suit, formally lodged on June 25, 2026, at the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division, seeks to hold Okonkwo accountable for statements Obi claims have harmed his reputation and political credibility. The legal action follows a public dispute between the two former allies, now embroiled in a high-stakes legal battle that has drawn national attention.
Obi, represented by Chief Alex Ejesieme (SAN), is demanding ₦5 billion in general damages for the alleged injury to his reputation, ₦2 billion in aggravated damages, and ₦1 billion in exemplary damages. These figures bring the total claim to ₦8 billion, one of the largest defamation suits in recent Nigerian political history. The court documents outline that the alleged defamatory remarks were made during a live broadcast, amplifying their reach and potential impact on public perception.
In addition to monetary compensation, Obi is seeking a full retraction and public apology from Okonkwo. The apology must be published on Channels Television, its YouTube channel, Okonkwo’s social media platforms, and in three national newspapers. He is also requesting the removal of all content containing the disputed statements and a perpetual injunction to prevent Okonkwo from making similar claims in the future. These measures reflect Obi’s intent to not only seek justice but also to restore his public image.
The court has approved the service of the writ outside Anambra State, specifically in Enugu, where Okonkwo resides. He has been given 42 days to enter an appearance after being served. If he fails to respond within the stipulated period, the court may proceed to enter a default judgment against him. This legal timeline underscores the seriousness of the case and the potential consequences for Okonkwo.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some users expressing surprise at the escalation between former allies, while others emphasize the importance of legal recourse in addressing false claims. Comments range from “Politics keeps getting more interesting” to “Hope both sides present their evidence and let the court decide.” The case has become a talking point across political and legal circles, with many anticipating how the judiciary will handle such a high-profile dispute.
As the legal process unfolds, the case may set a precedent for how defamation claims are handled in Nigerian politics. The outcome could influence how public figures respond to criticism and the boundaries of free speech in political discourse. The nation watches closely as this legal battle moves forward.
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