Former Labour Party chieftain and actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, has broken his silence following reports that former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has instituted a ₦5 billion defamation action against him.

Reacting in a public statement on Wednesday, Okonkwo said he had not yet seen the legal letter reportedly sent by Obi’s lawyers and would only respond after reviewing its contents. “I have not read the letter and I will reply to the letter whenever I have the time to read it later in the day.

Please send it here if you have it. It will be a shame to Peter Obi and his lawyers if they do not take this case to court. I don't have time or patience for scammers,” Okonkwo stated.

The legal dispute stems from comments allegedly made by Okonkwo concerning Peter Obi’s involvement in the affairs of the Labour Party.

Obi’s legal team reportedly accused the former spokesman of making defamatory statements capable of damaging the former Anambra State governor’s reputation.

According to reports, Obi is demanding a public retraction and apology, as well as ₦5 billion in damages over the alleged defamatory remarks.

The former presidential candidate has maintained that the claims made against him are false and injurious to his character.

Okonkwo’s response suggests he is prepared to defend himself if the matter proceeds to court, while also challenging Obi and his legal representatives to follow through with the legal action.

The development marks another chapter in the growing rift between the two former political allies, whose relationship has deteriorated in recent months amid disagreements over the direction of the Labour Party and opposition politics in Nigeria.

As of the time of filing this report, Peter Obi’s camp had not issued any fresh response to Okonkwo’s latest remarks.