Nigeria Protest: Peter Obi Demands N5bn and Apology from Onanuga

(iexclusivenews) – Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general elections, has issued a stern ultimatum to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to the President.

Obi has given Onanuga 72 hours to pay N5bn in damages and publish a public apology in four national newspapers for defamation and libel, or face legal action.

Allegations of Incitement

The controversy began when Onanuga, on July 20, 2024, posted on his X handle (@aonanuga1956) that “Peter Obi’s supporters are the people planning mayhem in Nigeria and that Obi should be held responsible for anarchy”.

This statement linked Obi to a planned mass protest scheduled for August, a claim that Obi vehemently denies.

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Legal Response from Peter Obi

Obi demanded a retraction of the allegations through his counsel, Chief Alex Ejesieme, SAN of MADIBA Chambers.

The legal team emphasized that the defamatory statements, widely circulated on social and mainstream media, have severely damaged Obi’s reputation.

Known for his non-violent stance, Obi’s image has been tarnished by these unfounded claims.

Emotional and Reputational Impact

The letter from Obi’s legal team highlighted the emotional distress caused by the publication.

Despite his nickname “Okwute” (The Rock), the scandalous allegations have caused significant emotional injury to Obi, given his decades of exemplary service in private and public life.

The publication was described as a calculated attempt to demean, ridicule, and embarrass Obi in the eyes of the public.

Demands and Consequences

Obi’s legal team has demanded that Onanuga retract his statement and issue an unreserved apology within 72 hours in four national dailies: Vanguard, THISDAY, Punch, and The Cable, as well as on his verified X account.

Additionally, Obi is seeking N5bn in damages for the embarrassment and harm caused to him and his family. Failure to meet these demands will result in legal action for defamation and libel.

This legal battle underscores the intense political climate in Nigeria and the lengths to which public figures will go to protect their reputations.

The outcome of this case could have significant implications for political discourse and accountability in the country.