A political commentator and public affairs analyst, Mr. Obunike Ohaegbu, has responded to recent remarks by former Nollywood actor and lawyer, Barr. Kenneth Okonkwo, expressing surprise over what he described as an attempt to deflect attention from the legal issues surrounding an alleged defamation suit reportedly being pursued by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

In a strongly-worded statement made available to the media, Ohaegbu maintained that he never referred to Obi as a criminal, nor did he accuse the former Anambra State governor of demanding a ₦10 million bribe from him.

Addressing Okonkwo directly, Ohaegbu challenged the lawyer to publicly reproduce any statement where such allegations were made.

“You remain my friend, and nothing has changed in that regard. However, I must confess that I am shocked by the game of deflection you appear to be playing,” Ohaegbu stated.

He further urged Okonkwo to make public the full communication under contention and specifically identify where he allegedly described Obi as a criminal.

According to him, if such evidence cannot be produced, then it would amount to attributing words to him that he never uttered.

Ohaegbu also stressed his belief in the constitutional principle of presumption of innocence, noting that even individuals facing serious criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law.

“I fully subscribe to that constitutional principle,” he said.

The political commentator questioned Okonkwo’s position as a legal practitioner, arguing that professional ethics and legal responsibility should guide public statements, especially when allegations of criminality are involved.

He also dismissed what he described as threats to release information allegedly obtained during Okonkwo’s time as spokesman to Obi, insisting that public debates should be driven by facts and evidence rather than intimidation.

“I thought you said you had proof from me which justified your position. If that is the case, why are you now threatening to deploy information allegedly obtained while serving as Peter Obi’s spokesman?” he queried.

Ohaegbu further warned against the use of blackmail in political engagements, describing it as “the weapon of the weak and desperate,” while insisting that honourable individuals should rely on verifiable facts and convictions.

In a swipe at Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, he referenced recent political realignments and appointments under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that political reinventions have become commonplace in the country.

The latest exchange adds another layer to the growing war of words involving former key figures within and around the Labour Party political family, with observers closely watching the legal and political implications of the unfolding controversy.

As of the time of filing this report, Barr. Kenneth Okonkwo had not publicly responded to Ohaegbu’s latest statement.