Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has given Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to the President, a 72-hour ultimatum. Obi is demanding N5 billion in damages and a public apology in four national newspapers for what he alleges to be defamation and libel.
Obi’s legal action stems from a statement made by Onanuga on July 20, 2024. On his X handle, @aonanuga1956, Onanuga claimed, “Peter Obi’s supporters are planning mayhem in Nigeria, and Obi should be held responsible for anarchy.”
Through his counsel, Chief Alex Ejesieme, SAN, of the MADIBA Chambers, Obi asserts that these allegations have tarnished his reputation. Obi, known for his non-violent stance even under provocation, feels deeply maligned by Onanuga’s accusations.
The legal letter sent to Onanuga states, “It’s our client’s conviction that the publication was a calculated plot to demean, ridicule, humiliate, and embarrass him by the estimation of every right-thinking member of society.”
Obi’s camp reports that well-wishers worldwide have expressed their shock at the allegations. Despite his strong reputation as “Okwute” (the Rock), the accusations have caused significant emotional distress.
The letter demands that Onanuga retract his statement and publish an unreserved apology within 72 hours in four national dailies: Vanguard, THISDAY, Punch, and The Cable. Additionally, the apology must be posted on Onanuga’s verified X account.
Obi also demands N5bn in monetary damages for the embarrassment caused by the defamatory publication. The letter warns, “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.”
Onanuga’s allegations were widely circulated in both social and mainstream media, reaching audiences within and outside Nigeria. Obi’s legal team argues that the statements have severely damaged his reputation, painting him as a proponent of violence, contrary to his known principles.
The counsel emphasized, “The demeaning and scandalous publication has caused serious emotional injury to our client given his decades of stellar stewardship in private and public life.”
The letter further underscores that Onanuga’s claims were not only baseless but also harmful, potentially inciting public unrest and damaging Obi’s public image.
Obi’s legal action has garnered significant attention. Political analysts view this move as a stand against the spread of misinformation and defamation in Nigerian politics. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how public figures address defamatory statements.
The Labour Party has backed Obi’s demands, emphasizing the importance of accountability and truth in public discourse. Supporters argue that such defamatory statements if left unchallenged, could erode public trust and promote false narratives.
If Onanuga fails to meet Obi’s demands within the stipulated 72 hours, legal proceedings will commence. The case will then proceed to a Court of Competent Jurisdiction, where Obi will seek to prove the defamation and claim the requested damages.
Observers are closely watching the situation, noting that the resolution could influence future interactions between political figures and the media. The demand for a public apology in multiple national outlets highlights the severity of the allegations and the importance of restoring Obi’s reputation.
In conclusion, Obi’s firm stance against defamation underscores his commitment to integrity and transparency. As the 72-hour deadline approaches, all eyes are on Onanuga’s response and the potential legal battle ahead.
Source: Vanguard
