Fastrumours Information update spot
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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.
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“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.
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“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
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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.
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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.
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Warning over confidential information
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According to Okonkwo, he possesses information obtained while serving as Obi’s spokesperson but has refrained from making it public out of principle.
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“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.
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“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.”
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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.”
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Challenges Obi to proceed to court
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Okonkwo said he would respond formally after reviewing the letter and insisted that the matter should be tested in court.
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“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.”
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He added, “I don’t have time or patience for scammers.”
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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.
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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.”
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