The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has vowed to withdraw from the 2027 presidential election if evidence presented by Kenneth Okonkwo proves that he is unfit to hold public office.
Obi made the declaration during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo while explaining his decision to institute a defamation suit against Okonkwo, who was recently appointed spokesman to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
The former Anambra State governor challenged Okonkwo to publicly release any damaging information he claims to possess about him.
According to Obi, the lawsuit was not intended to silence his former spokesperson but to compel him to substantiate the allegations he has repeatedly made.
“I want Kenneth Okonkwo to bring out all the ‘hidden things’ that he has on me. If I am not qualified after his revelation, then I’ll stop running for the election,” Obi said.
Obi maintained that Nigerians have a right to know the true character and background of anyone seeking elective office before casting their votes.
He noted that Okonkwo had repeatedly claimed to possess sensitive information about him from the period he served as his spokesperson.
Responding to criticism that the legal action was aimed at suppressing free speech, Obi insisted that the suit was solely intended to compel Okonkwo to present whatever evidence he claimed to have.
“Kenneth Okonkwo said, as my spokesperson, he had so many hidden things that if he’s provoked or sued, he will bring them out. And that’s the only thing I’m suing him for—to bring those things out,” he added.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate