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 any legal battle could lead to the disclosure of information he has so far kept private.
In a statement shared on social media, Okonkwo said he became aware of a letter allegedly sent by Obi and his legal team 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 N5 billion,” 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.”
The actor-turned-politician, who served as one of Obi’s spokespersons during the 2023 presidential campaign, further claimed that he personally funded some campaign-related expenses during that period.
“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.
Okonkwo also alleged that he possesses information obtained while serving in Obi’s campaign team but has deliberately chosen not to make it public.
According to him, if the matter proceeds through the courts, he may be compelled to reveal details he has so far withheld.
“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 also criticized the decision to sue a former spokesperson, arguing that such a move was unwise.
“Anyone who decides to sue his former spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise,” he added.
Okonkwo challenged Obi and his legal team to pursue the matter in court, insisting that he was prepared to respond after reviewing the letter.
“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.
“I don’t have time or patience for scammers.”
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