By BONIFACE AKARAH

United Bank for Africa has dismissed as false a viral report alleging that its Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, had divorced his wife, confirming that three persons have been arrested in connection with a fake news.

In a formal notice issued by the bank’s Group Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Alero Ladipo, the institution described the claims as “false, defamatory, and malicious,” stating that the content was fabricated to mislead the public and damage reputations.

“These statements and all similar content are entirely fabricated, reckless, and without basis,” the statement said.

UBA confirmed that the matter had been reported to law enforcement authorities, leading to the arrest of three individuals identified as Kingsley Akunemeihe, Chigozie Success Ihebom, and John Surpruchi Nwanorue.

“We confirm that three individuals directly connected to the creation and dissemination of these malicious falsehoods have been arrested,” the bank stated.

It added that investigations were ongoing and could lead to additional arrests.

“Investigations are ongoing and are expected to lead to further arrests and prosecutions of all persons involved in originating, amplifying, or sustaining this defamatory campaign,” the statement noted.

UBA issued a cease-and-desist directive to individuals and platforms circulating the claims, warning of legal consequences.

“This serves as a formal notice… to immediately cease and desist,” the bank said, urging all parties to “remove the offending publication from all platforms immediately” and “refrain from any further publication or amplification.”

The bank also directed those involved to preserve all relevant digital records pending legal action.

“Failure to comply will result in the initiation of legal proceedings, including claims for defamation, injunctive relief, damages,” it warned.

UBA stated that it would pursue all legal options to protect its reputation and that of its chairman.

“The UBA Group is resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy, and integrity of our brand… and will pursue all necessary legal avenues—civil and criminal—to ensure accountability,” the statement added.

The bank said further updates would follow as investigations progress.

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