The United Bank for Africa (UBA) has moved swiftly to quash viral social media claims that its Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, has ended his marriage confirming the arrest of three individuals allegedly behind the hoax and warning others involved to stand down or face prosecution.
In a statement issued on Sunday, UBA’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, described the circulating reports as entirely baseless, malicious and defamatory, stressing that the content was deliberately crafted to mislead the public and tarnish Elumelu’s reputation.
The bank named the three arrested suspects as Kingsley Akunemeihe, known online as @Directorkem; Chigozie Success Ihebom; and John Surpruchi Nwanorue, who operates under the handle @problemchimky. Investigations are ongoing, and UBA indicated that further arrests and prosecutions are expected as the probe widens to capture everyone involved in originating, amplifying or sustaining the campaign.
UBA issued a firm cease-and-desist warning to all individuals, platforms and entities that have published, reposted or continued to circulate the content. Those affected are required to pull down the offending material immediately, halt any further publication of similar falsehoods and preserve all related digital records — including communications, metadata and online footprints — pending legal action.
The bank made clear that non-compliance would trigger civil and criminal proceedings, including claims for defamation, injunctive relief and damages.
“The UBA Group is resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy and integrity of our brand and that of Mr. Elumelu,” the statement read, adding that the institution would pursue every available legal avenue to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
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