Abuja, Nigeria – June 14, 2025 – Nollywood actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo has become a trending topic on X in Nigeria today following a controversial interview where he leveled accusations against Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate. The remarks, aired during an interview with Arise TV, have ignited widespread discussion and polarized reactions among Nigerians online.
In the interview, Okonkwo, a former spokesperson for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign, expressed disappointment with Obi, accusing him of betraying trust and failing to address internal party crises. He specifically criticized Obi’s leadership, alleging that the former Anambra governor lacked the decisiveness needed to strengthen the Labour Party and prepare it for future elections. Okonkwo’s statements come months after his resignation from the Labour Party on February 25, 2025, when he cited the party’s “non-existent” structure and leadership failures as reasons for his departure.
X posts captured the intensity of the public’s response. One user, @trendingblog247, highlighted Okonkwo’s accusations against Obi, noting that the remarks have drawn significant attention across Nigeria. Another post by @emmaikumeh praised Okonkwo for “speaking the truth” about internal issues within Obi’s camp, suggesting that his comments resonated with some party insiders. However, not all reactions were supportive. @NoNonsensezone accused Okonkwo of hypocrisy, questioning why he has not faced the same scrutiny as others for his criticisms, while @Rheedwhan_ labeled him a “snitch” unfit to be considered an ally.
The controversy was further fueled by Okonkwo’s recent political activities. Since leaving the Labour Party, he has advocated for a united opposition coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. In a May 2025 interview, he emphasized the need for opposition parties to present a credible alternative, criticizing the APC’s governance and calling for equity in leadership selection. His remarks about supporting a candidate willing to serve a single four-year term, regardless of regional origin, have kept him in the political spotlight.
Okonkwo’s comments also drew a sharp response from Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, who recently clashed with the actor over his defection to the APC. Eno, in a rebuttal, mocked Okonkwo’s career, referencing his role in Living in Bondage and calling him an “attempted politician” and “attempted lawyer” who “failed” in multiple endeavors. This exchange, posted by @PulseNigeria247, added to the online buzz surrounding Okonkwo.
The trending posts reflect a divided sentiment. Supporters view Okonkwo as a bold voice exposing weaknesses in the Labour Party, while critics argue his criticisms are opportunistic or divisive. As Nigeria’s political landscape heats up ahead of 2027, Okonkwo’s outspokenness continues to stir debate, making him a polarizing figure on X and beyond.
