Former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa has initiated a ₦5 billion defamation lawsuit against African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo following comments allegedly made during a television interview.
The lawsuit was filed in the High Court of Imo State in Owerri and served to Okonkwo at his residence in Nsukka, Enugu State.
The case arises from remarks Okonkwo purportedly made on Channels Television’s *Sunrise Daily* on June 8, 2026, in which he accused Udenwa, Onyema Ugochukwu, Peter Obi, and other South-East leaders of extorting political aspirants during the party’s nomination process.
Udenwa contends that the interview was broadcast live and subsequently shared on Channels Television’s YouTube channel. He further alleges that Okonkwo’s comments were disseminated through his verified social media accounts and other online platforms.
The former governor categorically denied the allegations, asserting that he has never solicited or accepted money from any political aspirant. Udenwa clarified that, although he is a member of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), he does not hold any executive position within the party.
In the court documents, Udenwa stated that he has never faced allegations of fraud, financial misconduct, or corruption throughout his public career. He also emphasized that he played no role in the NDC’s 2027 candidate selection process and has never met with Onyema Ugochukwu or Peter Obi to extort any aspirant.
He argued that Okonkwo’s statements have severely damaged his reputation and political standing, leading to numerous inquiries from associates seeking clarification.
Udenwa is requesting the court to declare the comments as false, malicious, and defamatory. He seeks ₦5 billion in damages, a public apology, and a retraction to be published on Channels Television, its YouTube platform, Okonkwo’s social media accounts, and three national newspapers.
Additionally, he wants the court to order the removal of all related publications and to restrain Okonkwo from making similar allegations in the future. The suit also seeks ₦25 million in legal costs along with other reliefs.
Chief Soronnadi Njoku (SAN), counsel for the plaintiff, stated that Okonkwo has 42 days from the date of service to respond to the lawsuit; otherwise, the court may proceed in his absence.
