United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has dismissed as false reports circulating on social media claiming that its Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, has divorced his wife.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Tier-1 lender described the claims as “false, malicious and defamatory,” insisting they were deliberately fabricated to mislead the public and tarnish the reputation of its chairman.
In a statement issued on Sunday, UBA’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Alero Ladipo, said the publication and similar content were entirely untrue and part of a coordinated attempt to spread misinformation.
The bank also disclosed that three individuals — Kingsley Akunemeihe (@Directorkem), Chigozie Success Ihebom, and John Surpruchi Nwanorue (@problemchimky) — have been arrested by law enforcement authorities over their alleged involvement in the incident.
According to the statement, “Investigations are ongoing and are expected to lead to further arrests and prosecutions of all persons involved in originating, amplifying or sustaining this defamatory campaign.”
UBA issued a stern warning to those involved in spreading the content, stating: “This notice serves as a formal notice to all individuals, platforms, and entities involved in the publication, reposting, or continued dissemination of this content to immediately cease and desist.
“All such parties are hereby required to remove the offending publication from all platforms immediately; refrain from any further publication or amplification of similar false content and preserve all records, including digital footprints, communications, and metadata relating to the creation and dissemination of the publication, pending further legal action.”
The bank further warned: “Failure to comply will result in the initiation of legal proceedings, including claims for defamation, injunctive relief, damages, and any other remedies available under applicable law.”
Reaffirming its position, UBA stated: “The UBA Group is resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy, and integrity of our brand, that of Mr Elumelu and will pursue all necessary legal avenues — civil and criminal — to ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.”
