Three Arrested Over False Claim Against Elumelu

Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the circulation of false and defamatory claims targeting the Group Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Tony Elumelu.
UBA, in a formal notice issued by its Group Head, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Alero Ladipo, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended following the spread of a malicious social media publication alleging that Elumelu had divorced his wife.
The bank described the claims as entirely fabricated, reckless and without any factual basis, noting that the content was deliberately designed to mislead the public and inflict reputational damage on both its chairman and the institution.
According to the statement, the matter was promptly reported to law enforcement authorities, who have since commenced investigations into the source and spread of the false information.
UBA identified the arrested individuals as Kingsley Akunemeihe, also known as @Directorkem; Chigozie Success Ihebom; and John Surpruchi Nwanorue, popularly referred to as @problemchimky on social media platforms.
The financial institution indicated that investigations are ongoing and may lead to further arrests and prosecutions of other persons involved in originating or amplifying the defamatory content.
It also issued a directive to all individuals and platforms engaged in the dissemination of the publication to immediately cease and desist, warning that continued circulation would attract legal consequences.
UBA further urged those concerned to take down the offending content across all platforms and preserve relevant digital records, including communications and metadata, pending further legal action.
Reiterating its position, the bank said it remains resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy and integrity of its brand and leadership, adding that it would pursue all necessary civil and criminal actions to ensure that all responsible parties are brought to justice.