The South East Progressives Forum (SEPF) has criticised the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, over his decision to file a N5 billion defamation lawsuit against his former spokesman and ally, Kenneth Okonkwo.
According to a report by Daily Post on Monday, June 22, 2026, the group, through its media head Paul Anigbogu, accused Obi of attempting to suppress criticism and intimidate Okonkwo following his exit from Obi’s political camp.
The dispute stems from a pre-action notice issued on June 9, 2026, by Obi’s legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Alex Ejesieme, accusing Okonkwo of making defamatory remarks that allegedly damaged Obi’s reputation.
The notice demanded a retraction, a public apology, and ₦5 billion in compensation within seven days or face legal action.
Okonkwo, through his legal representatives, rejected the demands, insisting that his statements were based on claims from NDC aspirants who alleged unfair treatment within the party structure.
Reacting, SEPF condemned the lawsuit, accusing Obi of intolerance to criticism and describing the move as inconsistent with democratic principles.
“The Obi thinks that he can make Kenneth Okonkwo the scapegoat, but we will not tolerate that,” Anigbogu said.
The group also referenced previous legal actions involving Obi, alleging a pattern of lawsuits against critics and media organisations, and warned that it would continue to speak out if the case against Okonkwo is not withdrawn.
