Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Communications and Strategy, has responded to the legal threat issued by Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party.
This follows Onanuga’s recent allegations that Obi and his supporters were behind the planned nationwide protests against the Tinubu administration due to the prevailing economic hardship.
Obi, through his lawyer Alex Ejesieme, SAN, demanded a retraction of the statement and an unreserved apology from Onanuga within 72 hours, alongside N5 billion in damages for defamation and libel.
Onanuga, in a post on his official X handle on Tuesday, expressed his readiness to face the legal challenge posed by Obi.
He stated, “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’.”
He further added, “Let me just tell Obi and his lawyer: I am not afraid of any legal action. We shall meet in court.”
Onanuga’s allegations came amidst growing discontent and planned protests against the Tinubu-led government. The protests are largely driven by widespread economic hardship, which has sparked significant public outrage.
In his letter, Obi’s lawyer highlighted that the accusations had tarnished Obi’s reputation, portraying him as someone who incites violence, contrary to his peaceful disposition.
With Onanuga’s firm stance and refusal to apologize or retract his statements, the matter is now poised to escalate to a court battle. This development adds another layer to the ongoing political tensions and public dissatisfaction with the current administration’s policies.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will impact the broader political landscape and the public perception of both the government and its critics. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a significant precedent for how public figures and government officials handle allegations and defamation claims in the future.