The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has formally filed and served a defamation suit against Kenneth Okonkwo at the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division.
According to court documents dated June 25, 2026, Obi is demanding ₦8 billion in damages over remarks allegedly made by Okonkwo during an appearance on channelstv.com�’s Sunrise Daily programme on June 8, 2026. The comments were subsequently circulated on social media platforms.
The suit was filed through Chief Alex Ejesieme (SAN) of Alex Ejesieme, SAN & Co. (Madiba Chambers), Awka, following a worsening relationship between the former political allies, who have recently exchanged criticisms over opposition politics and leadership issues.
Court documents indicate that approval has been granted for the writ to be served on Okonkwo outside Anambra State, specifically in Enugu State. He is required to enter an appearance within 42 days of being served, failing which judgment may be entered against him.
Obi alleges that statements made by Okonkwo during the televised interview, later uploaded to Channels Television’s YouTube channel and shared through Okonkwo’s verified social media accounts, were false, malicious and defamatory.
The former Anambra State governor is seeking:
- ₦5 billion in general damages for alleged injury to his reputation, integrity, public image, political standing and goodwill.
- ₦2 billion in aggravated damages over the alleged continued publication and repetition of the statements after a demand letter was issued on June 9, 2026.
- ₦1 billion in exemplary damages, arguing that the allegations were allegedly repeated despite formal notice from his legal representatives.
Obi is also asking the court to order Okonkwo to issue a full retraction and apology on Channels Television, its YouTube platform, his social media pages and in three national newspapers.
He further seeks the removal of all content containing the disputed remarks and a perpetual injunction restraining Okonkwo from making similar allegations in the future.
Reactions:
“This matter may further deepen the division among opposition figures.”
“The court process will determine whether the alleged statements meet the legal threshold for defamation.”
“Political disagreements should not become personal attacks.”
Published by Ejoh Caleb
