Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has filed an ₦8 billion defamation lawsuit against former ally and actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo, seeking substantial damages over alleged defamatory statements made against him.
According to court documents, Obi is demanding ₦5 billion in restitutory damages and ₦3 billion in exemplary damages, bringing the total monetary claim to ₦8 billion.
The lawsuit also seeks a court order compelling Okonkwo to issue a full retraction of the alleged defamatory statements and publish an unreserved apology across multiple media platforms.
In the suit, Peter Obi is asking the court to order Kennedy Okonkwo to publish a retraction and apology through:
National television stations;
Newspapers;
Social media platforms; and
Other channels where the alleged defamatory remarks were circulated.
The former Anambra State governor argues that the statements have damaged his reputation and public standing.
Beyond financial compensation and a public apology, Obi is also asking the court to issue a perpetual injunction restraining Okonkwo from making or publishing any further statements containing similar allegations against him.
The injunction, if granted, would permanently bar the actor and politician from repeating or republishing the disputed claims.
The legal action further requests:
Additional legal costs incurred in prosecuting the case;
Post-judgment interest on any monetary award granted by the court; and
Any other relief the court considers appropriate in the circumstances.
According to the originating court processes, the suit is dated June 26, with the court directing Kennedy Okonkwo to enter an appearance within 32 days after being served with the court papers.
The notice warns that failure to respond within the stipulated period could result in judgment being entered against him in his absence.
The lawsuit marks a significant escalation in the public disagreement between Peter Obi and Kennedy Okonkwo, who was once one of Obi's vocal supporters during the 2023 presidential campaign.
Their relationship has deteriorated in recent months following a series of public comments and criticisms, culminating in the legal action now before the court.
The case is expected to attract considerable public and political attention, given the prominence of both men and the potential implications for Nigeria's political discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections.
If the matter proceeds to trial, the court will determine whether the statements complained of were defamatory and whether Obi is entitled to the damages and other reliefs being sought.
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