By Ayo Kehinde
The management of the United Bank for Africa has dismissed as false and malicious reports circulating on social media alleging that its Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, has divorced his wife, describing the claims as fabricated attempts to damage his reputation and that of the financial institution.
In a statement issued on Sunday, by the Group Head, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Mrs Alero Ladipo, the bank said the publication and similar online content were entirely baseless, defamatory and intentionally designed to mislead members of the public.
UBA stressed that neither the reports nor the insinuations being spread across digital platforms had any factual foundation, insisting that the allegations were part of a coordinated misinformation campaign targeted at the prominent businessman and the bank’s brand image.
According to the statement, the matter has already been referred to relevant law enforcement authorities, who have commenced investigations and enforcement actions against individuals linked to the alleged defamatory publication.
The bank confirmed that three suspects connected to the creation and dissemination of the false claims have been arrested. Those identified by the bank are Mr Kingsley Akunemeihe, popularly known online as @Directorkem, Mr Chigozie Success Ihebom, and Mr John Surpruchi Nwanorue, also known as @problemchimky.
UBA further disclosed that investigations were ongoing and could result in additional arrests and prosecutions of other persons allegedly involved in originating, amplifying or sustaining the publication across social media and other digital channels.
The financial institution issued a stern warning to individuals, blogs, social media users and online platforms still circulating the reports, directing them to immediately remove the offending content and desist from further publication or amplification of the claims.
The bank also instructed all parties connected with the reports to preserve relevant records, including digital communications, metadata and other electronic footprints, pending possible legal proceedings.
UBA warned that failure to comply with the directives could lead to civil and criminal legal action, including lawsuits for defamation, claims for damages, injunctive relief and other remedies available under applicable laws.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting its corporate reputation and leadership, the bank said it remained resolute in defending the integrity, privacy and image of both the institution and Tony O. Elumelu.
“The UBA Group will pursue all necessary legal avenues to ensure that every individual connected with this malicious campaign is identified and held accountable”, the statement added.
