Former presidential candidate Peter Obi is suing Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, for N5 billion over defamation. The lawsuit follows Onanuga’s allegations that Obi and his supporters planned protests against the government. The legal battle promises to be a landmark case in Nigerian politics.
Abuja, Nigeria – July 25, 2024 – Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi has filed a defamation lawsuit against Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Communications and Strategy. The lawsuit, demanding N5 billion in damages, has set the stage for a high-profile legal battle.
The conflict began when Onanuga accused Obi and his supporters of orchestrating nationwide protests against the Tinubu administration in response to the country’s ongoing hardships. His allegations were met with strong rebuttals from Obi, who in a letter signed by his lawyer, Alex Ejesieme, demanded a retraction and an unreserved apology within 72 hours. Failing this, Obi warned, legal action would be taken.
In response, Onanuga took to his official X handle (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, stating, “I am still waiting for the letter from Peter Obi’s lawyer threatening a N5 billion suit and demanding an apology to Peter Obi over the planned ‘revolution’. Let me just tell Obi and his lawyer: I am not afraid of any legal action. We shall meet in court.”
The tension between the two prominent figures has escalated, drawing significant media attention and public interest. Obi, known for his integrity and straightforward approach, has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting that Onanuga’s statements were baseless and damaging to his reputation.
Onanuga, a seasoned journalist and the president’s communications strategist, remains defiant, indicating his readiness to face Obi in court. This legal confrontation promises to be a landmark case, potentially influencing the standards of accountability and the spread of information in Nigeria’s political landscape.
