N5bn Bribery Scandal Rocks Kenneth Okonkwo: Fresh Lawsuit Filed!

Actor-turned-politician and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, is currently embroiled in a fresh legal controversy, facing a new ₦5 billion lawsuit. This latest legal action stems from allegations connected to the nomination process of aspirants within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The suit was reportedly initiated by former Achike Udenwa, in direct response to comments allegedly made by Okonkwo concerning financial transactions during the party’s internal procedures.

This new development follows an earlier legal challenge from NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who had previously demanded ₦5 billion in damages. Obi's demand also sought a public retraction of statements Okonkwo allegedly made during a televised interview. Obi’s legal team vehemently described Okonkwo’s allegations as false, highly defamatory, and damaging to the presidential candidate's reputation.

The crux of the ongoing dispute revolves around claims that certain aspirants who were seeking legislative tickets were purportedly asked to make financial payments during the party's nomination process. However, one of the implicated aspirants has reportedly denied that Peter Obi personally received any of these funds, asserting instead that any payments made were channelled into the party’s official account.

Despite the mounting legal pressure, Kenneth Okonkwo has publicly dismissed both the current lawsuit and the previous legal threat. He has expressed his preparedness and resolve to defend his position vigorously should these matters proceed to court. This escalating situation further intensifies the public fallout between these former political allies, setting a contentious backdrop as the nation approaches the build-up to the 2027 election cycle.