Three persons in connection with claims that the chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Mr Tony Elumelu, has divorced his wife, Mrs Awele Elumelu, have been arrested by the police.
A statement on Sunday by the Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Ms Alero Ladipo, described the reports as “false, defamatory, and malicious,” stressing that they were deliberately “designed to mislead the public and cause reputational harm.”
The three individuals apprehended over the rumour were named as Mr Kingsley Akunemeihe (@Directorkem), Mr Chigozie Success Ihebom, and Mr John Surpruchi Nwanorue (@problemchimky).
The suspects were said to have falsely and recklessly alleged that Mr Elumelu had parted ways with his wife without basis.
In the statement, the bank said the relevant law enforcement authorities are already looking into the matter, with a view to further arresting and prosecuting “all persons involved in originating, amplifying, or sustaining this defamatory campaign.”
“This 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,” the lender declared.
Platforms that have published the purported divorce have been directed to remove the story with immediate effect and refrain from any further publication or amplification of similar false content.
They are also required to preserve all records, including digital footprints, communications, and metadata relating to the creation and dissemination of the publication, pending further legal action.
The financial institution warned that, “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.”
“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,” it emphasised.
