A fresh rift between former political allies Kenneth Okonkwo and Peter Obi has escalated after the actor-turned-politician warned that a proposed defamation lawsuit could lead to the disclosure of confidential information.
Okonkwo made the remarks while responding to a legal threat issued by Obi over comments he recently made during a television interview.
The former Labour Party spokesperson described the idea of suing a former spokesperson as "unwise," arguing that such legal action could open the door to sensitive revelations.
According to Okonkwo, some information obtained during his time working closely with Obi has remained private because of personal principles and professional discretion.
He stated that a court case could change that situation if he is required to defend himself against the allegations.
The dispute stems from comments Okonkwo made during a Channels Television interview regarding activities surrounding the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and its candidate selection process.
During the interview, Okonkwo alleged that Obi and some party figures were involved in financial demands made on aspirants seeking legislative tickets.
One of the individuals mentioned in the controversy later publicly denied claims that Obi personally collected money from him.
Following the interview, Obi's legal team accused Okonkwo of making false and defamatory statements that damaged the former Anambra governor's reputation.
In a letter issued through his lawyers, Obi demanded a retraction, public apology, and ₦5 billion in general, aggravated, and exemplary damages.
The legal team also requested a written undertaking that similar statements would not be repeated in the future.
Obi's lawyers argued that the allegations portrayed him as a dishonest political figure and accused Okonkwo of making claims unsupported by evidence.
Reacting to the development, Okonkwo dismissed the demand and challenged Obi to proceed with legal action if he believed his claims were defamatory.
The ADC chieftain maintained that he was prepared to respond formally once he had reviewed the legal correspondence in full.
He further claimed that he personally spent resources supporting campaign activities during the period he served as one of Obi's spokespersons.
Okonkwo's comments have attracted significant attention because both men were prominent allies during the 2023 presidential election campaign.
Their relationship later deteriorated following political disagreements and differing views on opposition politics.
Political observers say the dispute reflects the growing divisions among former allies within Nigeria's opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
The controversy has also generated debate about political accountability, public accusations, and the role of defamation laws in political disputes.
Analysts note that if the matter eventually reaches court, both sides could face intense scrutiny over the claims and evidence presented.
For now, attention remains focused on whether Obi's legal team will proceed with formal litigation or whether both parties will seek another avenue to resolve the dispute.