The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has formally filed and served a defamation lawsuit 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 Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme on June 8, 2026.
The comments were later circulated across various social media platforms.
The suit, filed through Chief Alex Ejesieme (SAN) of Alex Ejesieme, SAN & Co. (Madiba Chambers), Awka, follows a deteriorating relationship between the two former political allies, who have recently traded criticisms regarding opposition politics and leadership matters.
Court documents indicate that the writ has been approved for service outside Anambra State, specifically in Enugu State, and requires Okonkwo to enter an appearance within 42 days of being served. Failure to do so could result in judgment being entered against him.
Obi alleges that statements made by Okonkwo during the televised interview, which were later uploaded to Channels Television’s YouTube channel and shared through his verified social media accounts, were false, malicious, and defamatory.
As part of the claim, Obi is seeking ₦5 billion in general damages for the alleged harm caused to his reputation, integrity, public image, political standing, and goodwill.
He is also requesting ₦2 billion in aggravated damages, citing the continued publication and repetition of the statements even after his legal representatives issued a demand letter on June 9, 2026.
Additionally, the former Anambra governor is asking the court to award ₦1 billion in exemplary damages, arguing that Okonkwo knowingly continued to repeat and promote the allegations despite being formally notified of his objections.
Beyond the financial claims, Obi is seeking court orders compelling Okonkwo to issue a full retraction and apology on Channels Television, its YouTube platform, his social media pages, and in three national newspapers.
He is also requesting the removal of all content containing the disputed statements and a perpetual injunction preventing the defendant from making similar allegations in the future.
