June 16, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended his decision to sue his former ally and campaign spokesman, Kenneth Okonkwo, insisting that the courtroom is the best place for all allegations against him to be tested publicly.
Speaking during a recent interview, Obi said he welcomed the legal battle because Okonkwo had claimed he possessed more damaging information that he intended to reveal in the future.
According to Obi, Nigerians deserve to know the truth about anyone seeking public office, stressing that leaders must be ready to face public scrutiny regarding their character, integrity, competence, and qualifications.
“I am happy to take him to court so that he can expose everything he claims to know. If anyone has any criminal allegation against me, let them bring it forward publicly,” Obi stated.
The lawsuit follows a series of allegations made by Kenneth Okonkwo, who accused Obi and some South-East political leaders of demanding ₦10 million from House of Representatives aspirants seeking party tickets. Okonkwo also alleged that Obi personally influenced candidate selections and engaged in questionable financial dealings.
Obi’s legal team has strongly denied the accusations, describing them as false, malicious, and defamatory. They have demanded a public retraction, apology, and compensation for damages.
The former governor also dismissed reports of serious internal divisions within his political movement, saying disagreements are normal in any organization and that issues raised have already been resolved.
Obi further challenged not only Okonkwo but any Nigerian with evidence of wrongdoing against him to come forward, arguing that the country must avoid producing future leaders whose records are clouded by unresolved allegations.
The growing rift between Obi and Okonkwo marks a dramatic turn in a relationship that once saw the actor-turned-politician serve as one of Obi’s strongest supporters during the 2023 presidential election campaign.
As the legal showdown unfolds, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the allegations can be substantiated in court or dismissed as political accusations.
