Former Anambra governor seeks damages over alleged defamatory statements; legal action marks escalation within Labour Party ranks

Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, has filed an ₦8 billion defamation suit against Kenneth Okonkwo, a notable party figure, at an Abuja court. The lawsuit was officially lodged on Thursday, 25 June 2026, signalling a major legal escalation within the Labour Party’s national leadership.

According to court filings seen in Abuja, Obi is seeking damages over what he described as defamatory statements made by Okonkwo. The former governor claims that Okonkwo’s public remarks have injured his reputation and standing both within the party and among Nigerians at large. The specifics of the alleged defamatory statements were detailed in the suit but have not been made public at this time.

This legal action comes amid rising tensions within LP following last year’s general elections, where internal disagreements and public accusations have tested party unity. Observers say Obi’s move is significant given his status as a leading opposition figure and could impact ongoing efforts to reconcile factions inside the party.

Neither Peter Obi nor Kenneth Okonkwo has issued an official statement regarding the lawsuit as at press time. Efforts to reach representatives from both camps were unsuccessful. Legal experts note that high-value defamation suits between political figures are rare in Nigeria and could set a precedent for future intra-party disputes.

The case is expected to proceed in the coming weeks, with observers watching closely for its effect on Labour Party cohesion ahead of upcoming off-cycle elections. Further details will be provided as developments emerge from the court proceedings.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/890730-updated-peter-obi-finally-files-n8bn-lawsuit-against-kenneth-okonkwo-over-defamation.html

Collaboration aims to address rising digital threats as online activity surges among young Nigerians nationwide

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has entered a partnership with global technology giant Meta to enhance online safety for youths across Nigeria. The initiative was unveiled on Thursday, 25 June, and is expected to focus on equipping young Nigerians with the skills and resources needed to navigate digital spaces securely.

Details of the collaboration were announced during a briefing in Abuja, where both NITDA and Meta representatives highlighted their commitment to tackling issues such as cyberbullying, misinformation, and data privacy breaches that affect youths on social media platforms. The agencies plan to roll out educational campaigns and digital literacy programmes targeting secondary schools and youth-led organisations in all six geopolitical zones.

This development comes amid growing concerns about the exposure of Nigerian youths to harmful content and online scams. With the increasing use of smartphones and social networking apps, incidents of cyber-related threats have surged nationwide. NITDA’s partnership with Meta is seen as a timely intervention to build resilience among the country’s large youth population, which constitutes over half of Nigeria’s estimated 220 million people.

According to officials at the event, the joint initiative will leverage Meta’s expertise in platform safety tools while NITDA will coordinate local outreach and policy advocacy. “We are committed to working closely with partners like Meta to ensure our young people can participate safely in the digital economy,” a NITDA spokesperson said at the briefing. Meta representatives emphasised their readiness to support local initiatives that promote safe online engagement.

The programme is expected to commence pilot activities within selected schools next quarter before expanding nationwide. Stakeholders have welcomed the move as a step towards empowering youths with critical knowledge for responsible internet use.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/890809-nitda-meta-partner-to-strengthen-youth-online-safety.html

Move marks major shift in aviation sector as authorities seek improved efficiency and service delivery at Akanu Ibiam International Airport

The Federal Government has officially transferred management of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to a private operator, marking a significant development in the South-East’s aviation landscape. The handover took place on Thursday, 25 June 2026, as part of government’s broader strategy to boost operational standards and infrastructure at major airports nationwide.

According to officials, the decision to concession the Enugu airport is aimed at ensuring better maintenance, enhanced passenger experience and increased revenue generation for the federal purse. The new private operator, whose identity was not disclosed at the event, is expected to take over daily management, with responsibilities covering passenger services, facility upgrades and compliance with international safety standards.

The move comes amidst longstanding calls from industry stakeholders for reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Many have argued that public ownership has led to inadequate funding and poor maintenance of airport facilities. By involving private partners in airport administration, government aims to mirror successes recorded in Lagos and Abuja, where similar concessions have led to improved services.

A senior official at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), who spoke during the handover ceremony in Enugu, said: “This partnership is designed to bring world-class standards to Akanu Ibiam International Airport and ensure it meets the needs of travellers from the South-East and beyond.”

While some local transport unions expressed cautious optimism about the transition, they urged government and the new operator to prioritise job security for existing staff. Aviation experts say the success of this concession will depend on clear regulatory oversight and sustained investment in airport infrastructure.

With this development, government is expected to monitor performance metrics closely as part of efforts to improve Nigeria’s status as a regional aviation hub. Further announcements regarding timelines for planned upgrades and changes to passenger procedures are anticipated in coming weeks.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/890806-fg-hands-over-enugu-airport-to-private-operator.html