Three arrested for claiming Tony Elumelu divorced wife
Three persons have been taken into custody over an alleged false social media report claiming that businessman and Chairman of United Bank for Africa Group, Tony Elumelu, had separated from his wife, Awele Elumelu.
In a statement released by the bank’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Alero Ladipo, the financial institution described the report as “false, defamatory, and malicious,” insisting that the allegation was completely fabricated and aimed at misleading the public while tarnishing Mr Elumelu’s image.
The bank disclosed that the matter had already been reported to security agencies, which have commenced investigations into the source and circulation of the claim.
According to the statement, three suspects have so far been arrested over the alleged spread of the misinformation.
Those arrested were identified as Kingsley Akunemeihe, popularly known as @Directorkem, Chigozie Success Ihebom, and John Surpruchi Nwanorue, also known as @problemchimky.
UBA further stated that investigations remain ongoing and could result in additional arrests and prosecution of others linked to the creation or distribution of the content.
The bank also issued a cease-and-desist directive to individuals and platforms that circulated the allegation, ordering them to immediately delete the content, stop further dissemination, and retain all relevant materials, including digital communications and metadata, ahead of possible legal proceedings.
The institution warned that failure to comply could attract legal action, including lawsuits for defamation, damages, and other remedies permitted by law.
“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,” the statement said.
