UBA Denies Elumelu Divorce Rumor, 3 Arrested

United Bank for Africa (UBA) has dismissed as false and malicious a viral social media claim alleging that its Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, has divorced his wife, Awele, confirming the arrest of three individuals linked to the fabrication.

In a statement issued Sunday by Alero Ladipo, UBA's Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, the bank described the reports as "entirely fabricated, reckless, and without basis," aimed at misleading the public and causing reputational harm to Elumelu and the institution. The suspects named are Kingsley Akunemeihe, who operates the social media handle Directorkem; Chigozie Success Ihebom; and John Surpruchi Nwanorue, known as problemchimky. UBA said the matter was referred to law enforcement authorities, who have begun investigations that may lead to additional arrests and prosecutions of those who originated, amplified, or spread the content.

The rumor, which circulated rapidly on platforms including Facebook, X, and WhatsApp in recent weeks, falsely claimed Elumelu separated from his wife of more than 30 years following a DNA paternity dispute. The couple, parents to seven children, were last seen together publicly in...