A fresh war of words has erupted between former allies in Nigeria’s opposition political space as actor-turned-politician and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, warned that any attempt by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi to sue him for alleged defamation could lead to the disclosure of confidential information.
Okonkwo made the remarks in a series of posts on X, formerly Twitter, while responding to reports that Obi was considering legal action over statements he allegedly considered defamatory.
The former spokesperson for Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign described the prospect of such a lawsuit as “very unwise,” arguing that legal proceedings involving former principals and their spokespersons often result in the public disclosure of sensitive information that may otherwise have remained private.
“It is very unwise for any principal to sue his former spokesperson for defamation,” Okonkwo wrote, suggesting that defending himself in court could require him to reveal information obtained during the course of his work with Obi.
The latest exchange underscores the deepening divide between the two political figures, who were once key allies during the 2023 presidential election campaign.
Okonkwo, a lawyer and prominent supporter of Obi during the election, had served as one of the most visible voices defending the former Anambra State governor and the Labour Party. However, their relationship has since deteriorated amid disagreements over political strategy, party leadership, and the direction of opposition politics in Nigeria.
In recent months, Okonkwo has publicly criticized Obi on several occasions, accusing him of failing to provide the leadership needed to address internal crises within the Labour Party and broader opposition movement.
Responding to reports of a possible lawsuit, Okonkwo maintained that he was prepared to defend his statements if challenged in court.
He argued that legal proceedings would inevitably require both parties to present evidence and testimony, potentially bringing previously undisclosed matters into the public domain.
While he did not specify the nature of the confidential information he claimed to possess, his comments have fueled speculation about what details could emerge if the dispute escalates into a legal battle.
Political observers note that defamation cases involving former political associates can often attract significant public attention, particularly when they involve claims of insider knowledge or privileged communications.
As of the time of filing this report, Obi had not publicly responded to Okonkwo’s latest comments.
The former presidential candidate has remained focused on national issues in recent public statements, frequently criticizing the policies of the Federal Government and calling for greater transparency, accountability, and economic reforms.
Neither Obi nor his media team has officially confirmed whether legal proceedings have been initiated against Okonkwo.
Analysts say the dispute reflects ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s opposition landscape ahead of future electoral contests.
The public fallout between Obi and Okonkwo has attracted considerable attention among supporters of the opposition, many of whom viewed both men as key figures in the movement that emerged during the 2023 elections.
While it remains unclear whether the disagreement will ultimately end up in court, observers say the escalating rhetoric highlights the growing tensions among opposition figures as political calculations for the next election cycle begin to take shape.
For now, the controversy continues to play out in the public arena, with both camps facing increasing scrutiny over the claims and counterclaims surrounding their once-close political relationship.
