The recent allegations against Peter Obi’s supporters have sparked significant controversy and widespread media attention. This article aims to address the accusations, provide clarity on the legal stance taken by Mr. Obi, and highlight the potential repercussions of such claims.

Understanding the Allegations

On July 20, 2024, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Strategy, published a statement on his verified social media account accusing Peter Obi’s supporters of planning mayhem in Nigeria. The allegations were further disseminated through various media outlets, including Vanguard News, Tribune Online, Leadership, Channels TV, and This Day. These reports suggested that Mr. Obi’s supporters were responsible for orchestrating a nationwide protest aimed at destabilizing the government.

Legal Response from Peter Obi’s Counsel

In response to these allegations, Chief Alex Ejesieme, SAN, and his legal team issued a detailed rebuttal on July 22, 2024. The rebuttal, directed to Mr. Onanuga, outlined the following points:

1. Denial of Allegations: Mr. Obi’s legal team categorically denied the allegations, emphasizing that there is no truth to the claims that Mr. Obi or his supporters were involved in planning any disruptive activities.
2. Defamation Concerns: The statement highlighted the potential defamation and harm caused by these baseless accusations. It stressed that Mr. Obi, a respected elder statesman and democrat, has always operated within the confines of the law and has never incited or participated in unlawful protests.
3. Historical Context: The rebuttal underscored Mr. Obi’s long-standing commitment to peaceful dialogue and legal avenues for addressing grievances. It noted that Mr. Obi has consistently urged his supporters to adhere to the rule of law and has voiced his criticisms through constructive channels without malice.
4. Demand for Retraction and Apology: The legal team demanded a retraction of the defamatory statements and an unreserved apology from Mr. Onanuga within 72 hours. This retraction should be published in no less than four national dailies, including Vanguard, This Day, Punch, and The Cable.
5. Monetary Damages: In addition to the retraction, the legal notice included a demand for monetary damages amounting to five billion Naira for the embarrassment and harm caused to Mr. Obi and his family.

The Broader Implications

The allegations against Peter Obi’s supporters and the subsequent legal rebuttal bring to light several critical issues:

• Media Responsibility: The role of media in accurately reporting and verifying claims before dissemination.
• Legal Recourse: The importance of seeking legal redress in the face of defamatory statements to protect one’s reputation.
• Political Climate: The broader political implications of such allegations, particularly in a country with a volatile political environment.

Conclusion

Peter Obi’s supporters have found themselves at the center of a contentious political storm. However, the legal response from Mr. Obi’s counsel provides a robust defense against these allegations. It underscores the need for responsible communication and the importance of upholding legal standards in addressing grievances.

Further reading

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