Court Sh*wdown Begins As Udenwa Files ₦5 Billion Defamation Suit Against Okonkwo

Former Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, has filed a ₦5 billion defamation lawsuit against African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain and actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, over comments allegedly made during a television interview.

The suit, filed before the High Court of Imo State, Owerri Judicial Division, was served on Okonkwo at Ofuluonu, Nsukka, Enugu State, outside the court’s territorial jurisdiction.

According to court documents, the dispute stems from remarks Okonkwo allegedly made on June 8, 2026, during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, where he claimed that Udenwa, alongside other South-East political leaders, extorted governorship aspirants.

The interview was reportedly broadcast live before being uploaded to Channels Television’s YouTube channel under the title, “Kenneth Okonkwo Criticises Peter Obi, Condemns NDC Primaries.” Udenwa also alleged that the comments were further circulated through Okonkwo’s verified social media accounts, including X and Facebook.

In his statement of claim, Udenwa denied ever demanding or receiving money from any political aspirant. He maintained that although he is a member of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), he does not hold any executive position in the party and played no role in its candidate selection process for the 2027 general election.

The former governor further denied ever meeting with Onyema Ugochukwu or Peter Obi to extort South-East aspirants, insisting that throughout his years in public service, he has never been accused or prosecuted for fraud, corruption or any form of financial misconduct by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), or any other investigative agency.

Udenwa argued that Okonkwo’s alleged remarks have seriously damaged his reputation, integrity and political standing, adding that he received numerous calls from associates seeking clarification after the interview aired.

As part of the suit, Udenwa is asking the court to declare the statements false, malicious, baseless and defamatory. He is also seeking ₦5 billion in general damages for the alleged harm caused to his reputation.

In addition, the former governor wants the court to order Okonkwo to issue a full retraction and public apology on Channels Television, the station’s YouTube channel, and across his social media platforms, including X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. He is also requesting that the apology be published in three national newspapers within 30 days.

Other reliefs sought include an order directing the removal of all publications, videos and online posts containing the disputed allegations, a perpetual injunction restraining Okonkwo from making similar claims in the future, and ₦25 million to cover legal expenses incurred in pursuing the case.

Counsel to the plaintiff, Chief Soronnadi Njoku (SAN), disclosed that Okonkwo has 42 days from the date he was served with the court processes to enter his appearance. He added that the court may proceed with the matter and deliver judgment if the defendant fails to respond within the stipulated period.