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The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has initiated legal action against the Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, wigh his legal team demanding a retraction and N5 billion in damages for a defamatory publication that they claim has significantly harmed Obi’s reputation.
The controversy began with a statement published by Onanuga on his verified “X” (formerly Twitter) handle, “@aonanuga1956,” on 20th July 2024. The post alleged that “Peter Obi’s supporters are the people planning mayhem in Nigeria” and held Obi responsible for potential anarchy. This claim was further disseminated across various social media platforms and major Nigerian news outlets.
In a strongly-worded letter addressed to Onanuga, Obi’s legal counsel, Chief Alex Ejesieme, SAN, refuted the allegations, describing them as “false and malicious.” The letter stated: “Our Client denies the entirety of the falsehood contained in the said publication and insists that there is no modicum of truth in the allegations preferred against him in your published statement.”
Obi’s lawyers argued that the publication was not only defamatory but also intended to damage Obi’s reputation and standing.
The legal team also highlighted the extensive circulation of the defamatory statement, noting its presence on platforms such as “X,” WhatsApp, and Facebook, as well as various online and print media. This widespread dissemination has allegedly caused significant embarrassment and harm to Obi and his family.
In addition to the demand for N5 billion in damages, Obi’s lawyers warned of imminent legal action if Onanuga fails to comply with their demands. “Take Notice that in the event of your failure to meet the demands set out above, our Client shall be constrained to approach a Court of competent jurisdiction and take legal action against you for defamation and libel,” the letter read.
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