Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The United Bank for Africa Group has moved decisively against a wave of online disinformation, confirming the arrest of three individuals directly linked to a malicious and entirely fabricated social media campaign alleging that the bank’s Group Chairman, renowned economist and philanthropist Tony Elumelu, has divorced his wife, Dr. Awele Vivian Elumelu. The bank issued a formal statement on Sunday, May 3, 2026, describing the viral report as "false, defamatory, and malicious," and confirming that law enforcement agencies had already commenced action following the bank's referral of the matter.
According to the statement signed by Alero Ladipo, the Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, the three suspects were taken into police custody for their direct involvement in the creation and dissemination of what the bank described as a "deliberate falsehood designed to mislead the public and cause reputational harm." Those arrested have been identified as Mr. Kingsley Akunemeihe, known online as @Directorkem; Mr. Chigozie Success Ihebom; and Mr. John Surpruchi Nwanorue, who goes by the handle @problemchimky on social media platforms. The bank warned that investigations are still ongoing and are expected to lead to further arrests and prosecutions of all persons involved in originating, amplifying, or sustaining the defamatory campaign against its chairman.
The swift enforcement action underscores a growing intolerance for unverified and damaging gossip targeting high-profile figures in Nigeria. Alero Ladipo's statement left no room for ambiguity, categorically rejecting the claims as "entirely fabricated, reckless, and without basis." The UBA Group emphasized that the allegation of a divorce is not only false but also a calculated attack aimed at damaging the personal reputation of Mr. Elumelu and, by extension, the integrity of the financial institution he leads. The robust response reflects the increasing legal and financial risks associated with the spread of misinformation, particularly when involving influential business leaders.
The bank has not only focused on apprehension but has also issued a binding cease-and-desist directive to all media platforms, social media users, and individuals involved in reposting or disseminating the content. All parties have been instructed to remove the offending publication from all platforms immediately. Furthermore, they are required to refrain from any further publication or amplification of similar false content. The directive also mandates the preservation of all records, including digital footprints, communications, and metadata relating to the creation and spread of the publication, pending further legal action. The bank has made it clear that failure to comply will result in severe legal consequences, including prosecution for defamation and claims for substantial damages.
This zero-tolerance approach extends to potential civil and criminal proceedings. The UBA Group has stated its resolve to pursue all necessary legal avenues to ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable. The bank is determined to protect the reputation, privacy, and integrity of its brand and its chairman, signaling that this case will serve as a deterrent against future attacks. Legal experts suggest that the prosecution of these three suspects could set a significant precedent in Nigeria regarding the regulation of social media conduct and the enforcement of digital rights and liabilities. The case is particularly notable given the high profile of Mr. Elumelu, who is widely respected as a global advocate for African entrepreneurship and economic development.
Tony Elumelu and his wife, Dr. Awele Vivian Elumelu, have been pillars of Nigeria’s business and philanthropic landscape for decades. Married in 1993, the couple has raised seven children together, including a set of triplets who recently celebrated their high school graduation. Dr. Awele Elumelu is a distinguished medical doctor and entrepreneur, serving as the Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited. She is also a co-founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which has supported thousands of entrepreneurs across Africa. Their long-standing marriage and deep partnership have been publicly celebrated, making the sudden and baseless divorce rumors particularly shocking to the couple's loved ones and the broader public.
As the news of the arrests broke, civic groups and media advocates weighed in on the balance between freedom of expression and the right to reputation. While some expressed concern over potential misuse of legal powers against ordinary citizens, most agreed that the spread of deliberate falsehoods with malicious intent undermines public trust and can cause immense psychological and professional damage. The case highlights the volatile nature of social media narratives in Nigeria, where misinformation often spreads faster than facts, and where high-net-worth individuals are frequent targets of damaging speculation.
The UBA Group has called on the public to rely on official channels for accurate information regarding its leadership. As of the time of publication, no official court date has been set for the detained suspects, although the police have confirmed they are in custody pending further investigation. The bank reiterated its commitment to supporting the law enforcement process to its conclusion, emphasizing that "the 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 that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable."
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