Former Labour Party presidential campaign spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, has reacted strongly to reports that Peter Obi filed a ₦5 billion defamation lawsuit against him, describing the move as an attempt at extortion and warning that legal action could force him to disclose information he has kept private.
In a statement posted on social media, Okonkwo said he had been informed of a letter allegedly sent by Obi and his lawyers demanding ₦5 billion in damages.
“It has been brought to my notice that there is a letter circulating online from the hypocrite, Peter Obi, and his lawyers that I should pay him N5b,” he wrote.
“Hahaha! If Peter Obi is looking for money to campaign, he should privately ask me for assistance, not come from extortion, and I will help him.”
Claims of past financial support
Okonkwo, who served as a spokesperson for Obi during the 2023 presidential campaign, claimed he personally financed some campaign-related expenses.
“I did so when I was his spokesperson paying for my flight tickets and booking for my hotel accommodation to some of our campaigns,” he stated.
The former spokesperson said he had not yet read the letter but warned that Obi’s legal team would be responsible for any information he might reveal if the matter proceeds.
Warning over confidential information
According to Okonkwo, he possesses information obtained while serving as Obi’s spokesperson but has refrained from making it public out of principle.
“I have not read the letter. Let me sound this note of warning, the lawyers must take responsibility for any information I may have to divulge, which I acquired as a spokesperson, but which by my conscience I have not shared with anyone,” he said.
“My principle is that I do not use any confidential information I share with anyone against the person except the person who becomes unintelligent enough to tow the line of foolishness.”
He further criticised the decision to sue a former spokesperson, saying, “Anyone who decides to sue his former spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise.”
Challenges Obi to proceed to court
Okonkwo said he would respond formally after reviewing the letter and insisted that the matter should be tested in court.
“I will reply to the letter whenever I have the time to read it later in the day. Please send it here if you have it. It will be a shame to Peter Obi and his lawyers if they do not take this case to court.”
He added, “I don’t have time or patience for scammers.”
The former spokesperson also referenced a claim allegedly made by Obunike Ohaegbu, whom he identified as an aspirant for the Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency.
According to Okonkwo, Ohaegbu stated: “I am Obunike Ohaegbu, aspirant for Nnewi North/Nnewi South Ekwusigo Federal Constituency and I am saying that I was scammed and the party blames PO.”
