Rosemary Hewat, former group chief people officer (CPO), Kuda Technologies has dragged the company to a UK court over alleged sex discrimination, victimisation and unfair dismissal.
Hewat filed a case in UK Employment Tribunal accusing the company of victimization and forced dismissal in April 2024.
Kuda provides digital banking services in Nigeria and UK. In Nigeria, the company owns Kuda Microfinance Bank licensed Bank of Nigeria.
Kuda hired Hewat in August 2021 where she managed global HR operations from Kuda’s UK office.
Based on the court filing, Hewat alleged that she faced discriminatory behavior that contradicted Kuda’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy.
She also accused Babatunde Ogundeyi, chief executive officer, Kuda, of undermining her and fostering misogyny and intimidation.
In the filing, she alleged that in a retreat in Lagos in December 2023, the CEO called two female employees “low class” and accused them of lacking “quality or luxury.”
She alleged that the comment left the two women in tears.
She further detailed how the company’s action induced financial hardship on her.
She sought compensation for unfair dismissal, sex discrimination, and emotional distress.
This case has led to debate over workplace leadership.
Jurgen Proschinger, CEO, Triangle Forces, said via his X handle @triangleforces, “These allegations highlight critical issues around workplace equality and leadership accountability. Companies need to uphold values that foster an inclusive environment for all employees.
Elaina McAdams, founder, CAUHEC, in her reaction said, “It’s important to address these serious allegations for the integrity of all involved.”
