Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has declared he will withdraw from the 2027 election if actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo presents any evidence proving him unfit to serve. Obi made the statement during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, addressing the defamation suit he filed against Okonkwo.
Obi challenges Okonkwo to release evidence
Obi dared Okonkwo to publicly release all alleged damaging information he claims to hold against him. The former Anambra State governor emphasized that his lawsuit is not intended to silence Okonkwo but to compel him to substantiate repeated claims. “I want Kenneth Okonkwo to bring out all the ‘hidden things’ that he has on me. If I am not qualified after his revelation, then I’ll stop running for the election,” Obi said.
Okonkwo, recently appointed as spokesman for African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has allegedly claimed to possess sensitive information from his time as Obi’s spokesperson. Obi argued that Nigerians deserve to know the true character and background of anyone seeking public office before elections.
Defamation suit aims to compel disclosure, not silence
Responding to criticism that the lawsuit stifles free speech, Obi clarified its sole purpose. “Kenneth Okonkwo said, as my spokesperson, he had so many hidden things that if he’s provoked or sued, he will bring them out. And that’s the only thing I’m suing him for—to bring those things out,” he added. Obi’s vow underscores his commitment to transparency, as he challenges Okonkwo to prove any allegations that could disqualify him from the 2027 race.
