Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his determination to pursue legal action against former ally and political commentator Kenneth Okonkwo over allegations relating to corruption during party primary elections.

Speaking during an interview on Nevon Media hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni, Obi said the matter had reached a point where judicial intervention had become necessary. According to him, the decision to file a defamation suit was influenced not only by the accusations already made but also by Okonkwo’s claims that he possessed additional allegations that would be revealed in the future.

The dispute stems from comments previously made by Okonkwo, now a member of the African Democratic Congress. He had alleged during a television appearance that some aspirants seeking seats in the House of Representatives were compelled to pay substantial sums of money to secure party nominations.

Okonkwo further claimed that Obi was deeply involved in the process and accused him of influencing candidate selection outside the officially recognised primary election process. According to the allegations, some candidates were allegedly chosen outside the framework of the party’s primary exercise conducted in Abuja.

Obi, however, strongly rejected the claims and maintained that the allegations lacked credible proof. He argued that public accusations should be subjected to legal scrutiny rather than remaining in the realm of media debates and political commentary.

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The former governor of Anambra State said he welcomes the opportunity to have the claims examined in court, insisting that anyone with evidence of wrongdoing should present it before a judge.

According to Obi, the legal action is intended to provide a formal platform where all allegations can be tested and verified through due process. He stressed that accusations of criminal conduct are serious matters that should be supported by evidence rather than speculation.

Obi noted that he would not have considered legal action if the allegations had ended with the initial claims. However, he said Okonkwo’s suggestion that more damaging information would emerge later made it necessary to seek judicial clarification.

He stated that the courtroom offers the appropriate venue for transparency and accountability, adding that any person who believes they have evidence against him should bring it forward under oath.

Political observers view the dispute as another sign of the growing tensions and realignments within Nigeria’s opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. Both Obi and Okonkwo previously worked together within the Labour Party during the 2023 election cycle, but their relationship has since deteriorated amid disagreements over party affairs and political direction.

The controversy is expected to attract significant public attention as legal proceedings unfold. Analysts say the outcome could influence public perceptions of both men and further shape conversations surrounding transparency, party democracy, and accountability in Nigeria’s political system.

For now, Obi remains firm in his position, insisting that the allegations should be tested before a court of law. He maintained that he is prepared to defend his reputation and challenged his accusers to provide verifiable evidence to support their claims.