Peter Obi Initiates Defamation Lawsuit Against Kenneth Okonkwo
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has filed an N8 billion defamation lawsuit against his former ally, Kenneth Okonkwo, who has transitioned from acting to politics. The case is being heard in the Onitsha Judicial Division of the Anambra State High Court.
Details of the Defamation Suit
The legal action seeks considerable damages, a public retraction, the removal of the alleged defamatory material, and a permanent injunction to prevent any future dissemination of similar claims. Court documents reveal that Obi has accused Okonkwo of making statements that could be considered defamatory.
Procedural Actions Taken
The lawsuit commenced with a subpoena that names Okonkwo as the sole defendant. He is required to appear in court within 42 days of receiving the official notice. The writ specifically mandates that defendants respond appropriately to the court within the specified timeframe.
Demand for Public Acknowledgment
In addition to the substantial damages sought, Obi desires multiple court orders that would compel Okonkwo to publicly retract his statements and issue an apology across all of his active social media platforms. One notable remedy requested includes an order that ensures any retractions or apologies are prominently displayed and, if possible, pinned at the top of Okonkwo’s accounts for the duration of their activity.
Removal of Defamatory Content
The lawsuit also demands that Okonkwo remove any publications containing the statements in question from all platforms he owns or controls. Specifically, the writ requests an order mandating the removal of any interviews, posts, videos, or comments that contain the contested defamatory language.
Seeking Permanent Injunction Against Future Claims
Additionally, Obi is pursuing a permanent injunction that would prevent Okonkwo, along with his agents and associates, from making or disseminating similar claims in the future. This injunction is aimed at curtailing any further publication of allegations, including accusations of bribery, fraud, or criminal activity associated with Obi.
Legal Costs and Interest
Furthermore, Obi’s legal team, led by Alex Ejesiem SAN of Alex Ejesiem SAN & Company, is requesting that the court award legal costs along with post-judgment interest at a rate of 10 percent per year on the final monetary award until the payment is fully settled. The court documents, dated June 25, 2026, carry the official seal of the Onitsha High Court, confirming that the case was duly filed on a Thursday.
