Bank labels report “false and malicious,” warns of legal action as investigations widen into coordinated defamation campaign

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) has dismissed as false a viral social media report claiming that its Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, has divorced his wife, Awele Elumelu, describing the allegation as fabricated and deliberately misleading.

In a statement issued on Sunday, UBA’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the publication was a reckless attempt to tarnish the reputation of both the chairman and the institution.

According to the bank, the claim—currently circulating across social platforms—has no factual basis and was intentionally designed to deceive the public and inflict reputational damage.

UBA confirmed it has escalated the matter to security agencies, leading to the arrest of three individuals allegedly connected to the creation and dissemination of the false report. Those identified include Kingsley Akunemeihe (also known as @Directorkem), Chigozie Ihebom, and John Nwanorue (aka @problemchimky).

The bank disclosed that investigations are ongoing and could lead to further arrests and prosecution of others involved in spreading the defamatory content.

Issuing a stern warning, UBA directed all individuals and platforms currently sharing the false report to immediately cease its circulation. It also instructed those in possession of the content to take it down while preserving relevant materials for potential legal proceedings.

The financial institution reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity, privacy, and reputation of its leadership, stressing that it will pursue all legal avenues—both civil and criminal—against anyone found culpable.