Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has explained why he initiated legal action against former ally and actor Kenneth Okonkwo, saying the lawsuit became necessary after the lawyer-turned-politician persisted in making allegations against him and threatened to reveal more damaging claims.

Speaking during an exclusive interview on Nevon HQ on Tuesday June 16, 2026, Obi said he would not have taken the matter to court if Okonkwo had stopped making what he described as repeated allegations against him.

“The issue of taking Kenneth to court would not have arisen if he had only stopped making those allegations. But he said he has a lot that he will talk about in the future,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor was responding to questions about internal disagreements within the NDC and claims that have emerged following his fallout with Okonkwo.

Obi said he welcomed public scrutiny of anyone seeking elective office, adding that political leaders should be prepared to have their character and integrity examined openly.

According to him, Okonkwo’s declaration that he possessed more information prompted his decision to seek legal redress, as he believed the claims should be tested publicly rather than remain subjects of speculation.

“I’m happy that when I said I was taking him to court, he then said that now that he is being taken to court, he will be able to disclose and bring into the open all those things he wanted to keep behind,” Obi stated.

He argued that the legal process would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to assess the allegations objectively, stressing that those aspiring to lead the country should be willing to subject themselves to public accountability.

Obi further maintained that he had nothing to hide and challenged anyone with credible evidence of wrongdoing against him to present it through the appropriate channels.

The NDC presidential candidate’s comments come amid an escalating public dispute with Okonkwo, who has accused him of fraud and has repeatedly alleged that he possesses additional information about the former governor. Obi has denied the allegations and insists they should be resolved through the courts.

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