United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group has dismissed as false and malicious reports circulating on social media alleging that its Group Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu, has divorced his wife, describing the claims as defamatory and deliberately fabricated to tarnish his reputation.
UBA
In a formal notice issued on Sunday, the bank said the publication and similar related content were entirely baseless, reckless, and designed to mislead the public while causing reputational damage to Elumelu and the UBA brand.
According to the statement signed by the Group Head, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Mrs Alero Ladipo, the matter has been reported to relevant law enforcement authorities, which have already commenced investigations into the source and spread of the claims.
Read Also: UBA Unveils Diaspora Platform to Power Global African Lifestyle
The bank disclosed that three individuals allegedly linked to the creation and dissemination of the publication had been arrested. They were identified as Mr Kingsley Akunemeihe, also known as @Directorkem; Mr Chigozie Success Ihebom; and Mr John Surpruchi Nwanorue, known on social media as @problemchimky.
UBA said investigations were ongoing and could result in additional arrests and prosecutions of other individuals connected to originating, amplifying, or sustaining the false publication.
The financial institution issued a cease-and-desist notice to all persons, platforms, and entities involved in publishing or reposting the claims, directing them to immediately remove the content from all platforms and refrain from further dissemination.
It also instructed all affected parties to preserve records, including digital footprints, communications, and metadata linked to the creation and spread of the publication, pending possible legal action.
The bank warned that failure to comply with the directive would lead to legal proceedings, including defamation suits, claims for damages, injunctive relief, and other remedies available under applicable laws.
Also Read: UBA Goes Fully Digital: Open Naira Account in Minutes, No Branch Needed
“UBA Group is resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy, and integrity of our brand and that of Mr Elumelu, and will pursue all necessary legal avenues, civil and criminal, to ensure all responsible parties are identified and held accountable,” the statement said.
The bank urged the public to disregard the false reports and rely only on verified information from official channels.
