Peter Obi Sues Former Ally Kenneth Okonkwo in Anambra High Court

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Gregory Obi, has initiated legal proceedings against his former campaign spokesman and actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, marking a dramatic turn in a relationship that once symbolised the strength of the Obidient movement.

Court documents obtained by journalists indicate that the suit was filed before the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division.

According to a Certified True Copy of the court process, the case filed under Suit No. O/229/26, lists Peter Gregory Obi as the plaintiff and Kenneth Okonkwo as the defendant.

The writ, dated June 25, 2026 is described as a "Specially Endorsed Writ for Service Outside Jurisdiction" and directs Okonkwo to enter an appearance before the court within 42 days of being served.

Part of the court document reads:

“You are hereby commanded that within 42 days after the service of this writ on you, inclusive of the day of such service, you do cause an appearance to be entered for you in the High Court of Anambra State, Onitsha Judicial Division, in an action at the suit of Mr Peter Gregory Obi; and take notice that in default of your so doing, the plaintiff may proceed and judgment may be given in your absence.”

The document bears the official stamp of the High Court of Justice, Onitsha, and was certified by the Deputy Director, Chineme M.A.

Although the exact details of the claims against Okonkwo were not immediately available as of press time, the legal action signals a significant escalation in the breakdown of a political alliance that played a prominent role during the 2023 presidential election campaign.

Okonkwo was one of the most visible defenders of Obi and the Obidient movement during the electioneering period. However, differences later emerged between both men, particularly over the leadership direction of the Labour Party and the handling of internal party disputes.

The disagreements eventually led to Okonkwo publicly distancing himself from Obi's political camp, ending a partnership that had attracted national attention during the 2023 elections.

With the suit now before the Anambra State High Court, attention is expected to shift to the specific claims contained in Obi's statement of claim, which had not been made public at the time of filing this report.

Under the rules of the court, Okonkwo is required to respond within 42 days of being served with the court processes. Failure to do so could clear the way for further proceedings in his absence.

Efforts to obtain reactions from both parties were ongoing at the time of filing this report.