RismadarVoice Reporters, May 4, 2026
The United Bank for Africa (UBA) has dismissed as false and defamatory a viral social media report alleging that its Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, has divorced his wife, Awele.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the bank’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, UBA described the claim as “fabricated, reckless, and malicious,” aimed at damaging the reputation of both the chairman and the institution.
“The attention of UBA Group has been drawn to a false, defamatory, and malicious publication currently circulating on social media platforms, falsely alleging that the Group Chairman, Mr Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, has divorced his wife,” the statement read.
The bank stressed that the allegation has no factual basis and is a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
“These statements and all similar content are entirely fabricated, reckless, and without basis. The claims are a deliberate falsehood designed to mislead the public and cause reputational harm,” UBA added.
UBA further disclosed that the matter has been reported to security agencies, with arrests already made in connection with the spread of the false information.
According to the bank, three individuals—identified as Kingsley Akunemeihe (also known as @Directorkem), Chigozie Ihebom, and John Nwanorue (@problemchimky)—have been apprehended, while investigations are ongoing and may lead to additional arrests.
The bank issued a strong warning to individuals and platforms involved in circulating the content, urging them to immediately cease, remove all related materials, and preserve evidence for possible legal proceedings.
UBA emphasised that failure to comply would result in both civil and criminal action.
Reaffirming its stance, the bank stated it remains committed to protecting the reputation and privacy of its chairman and will pursue all available legal avenues against those responsible for the alleged defamation.
