Peter Obi Sues Kenneth Okonkwo for ₦8 Billion Defamation

Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, has initiated a defamation lawsuit against actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo, seeking ₦8 billion in damages. The legal action, filed in the High Court of Anambra State on June 25, 2026, stems from comments Okonkwo allegedly made during a June 8, 2026, appearance on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily program.

Obi contends that these statements were false, malicious, and defamatory, portraying him in a negative light and damaging his reputation. The lawsuit, prosecuted by Chief Alex Ejesiem of Madiba Chambers, seeks ₦5 billion in general damages, ₦2 billion in aggravated damages, and ₦1 billion in exemplary damages.

Additionally, Obi requests that Okonkwo retract his statements publicly and remove them from various platforms. The suit underscores the growing tension between Obi and Okonkwo, who were once political allies, as their relationship has deteriorated over differing political strategies within Nigeria's opposition movement.