Former Imo Governor Udenwa Slams Okonkwo With Massive ₦5bn Lawsuit

The suit, filed before the High Court of Imo State sitting in Owerri, followed comments reportedly made by Okonkwo during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 8, 2026. The former governor alleged that the statements, which were later circulated on YouTube and other social media platforms, falsely accused him and other South-East political leaders of extorting aspirants.

In the court documents, Udenwa denied ever demanding or collecting money from any political aspirant. He maintained that although he was a member of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), he held no executive position within the party and played no role in the process of selecting candidates for the 2027 general elections.

The former governor also rejected claims that he conspired with other South-East leaders, including Onyema Ugochukwu and Peter Obi, to extort aspirants, insisting that the allegations were entirely false and without foundation.

Udenwa stated that throughout his years in public service, he had never faced allegations of fraud, dishonesty or financial misconduct, nor had he been investigated or charged by anti-graft agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), or any other investigative body.

He argued that the statements had severely damaged his reputation, integrity and political standing, claiming they triggered numerous calls from associates seeking clarification over the allegations.

As part of the reliefs sought, Udenwa is asking the court to declare the statements false, malicious and defamatory. He is also requesting ₦5 billion in general damages, alongside an order compelling Okonkwo to issue a full public retraction and apology on Channels Television, its YouTube platform, and across his verified accounts on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

The former governor further wants the apology published in three national newspapers within 30 days, while also seeking the removal of all publications and videos containing the disputed allegations. In addition, he is requesting a perpetual injunction restraining Okonkwo from making similar claims in the future, as well as ₦25 million to cover legal expenses incurred in pursuing the case.

Counsel to the plaintiff, Chief Soronnadi Njoku (SAN), disclosed that Okonkwo has 42 days from the date he was served to enter an appearance before the court, warning that the matter could proceed to judgment if he fails to respond within the stipulated period.