Actor-turned-politician and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has reacted to a defamation suit filed against him by the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, dismissing the ₦5 billion damages demand and issuing a sharp response to the legal action.
The development comes after Obi demanded ₦5 billion in damages and a public apology over alleged defamatory remarks linked to a television interview.
In a letter dated June 9, 2026, Obi’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Alex Ejesieme, accused Okonkwo of making “false, malicious and defamatory” statements during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 8.
According to the legal team, Okonkwo allegedly claimed that Obi and South-East NDC leaders demanded ₦10 million from House of Representatives aspirants after payment of the official expression of interest fee.
In a post shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, June 10, Okonkwo said he had seen reports of the letter circulating online but had not formally reviewed it.
“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.
“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,” he wrote.
He also referenced his past role in Obi’s campaign structure, claiming he personally funded some of his activities.
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“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 added.
Okonkwo warned that any legal response should take into account information he obtained during his time as Obi’s spokesperson, while insisting he has remained restrained out of conscience.
“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 stated.
He further criticised the lawsuit, describing it as unwise and unnecessary.
“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. Anyone who decides to sue his former Spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise,” he said.
Okonkwo added that he would respond formally after reviewing the legal documents and maintained that he is unconcerned about the suit.
“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,” he wrote.
He also referenced separate allegations from aspirant Obunike Ohaegbu, who claimed he was “scammed” during the NDC primary process.