Former Skye Bank Plc chairman, Tunde Ayeni, has firmly rejected what he described as “back-door overtures” from lawyer Adaobi Alagwu, whom he accused of attempting to privately resolve their ongoing legal battle through informal channels.
In a statement released on Monday, Ayeni said he was surprised that Alagwu would seek a quiet settlement despite the extensive public scrutiny and reputational harm the controversy has brought upon him and his family.
He suggested that Alagwu’s sudden push for reconciliation may be tied to “personal reasons, including her reported forthcoming marriage,” but stressed that such motivations are irrelevant to him. According to Ayeni, the only issue that matters is clearing his name.
“My primary concern remains the restoration of my battered reputation, which has been severely impacted by this controversy,” he said.
READ ALSO:
- US Directs Non-Emergency Embassy Staff To Exit Nigeria After Kebbi, Niger, Jos Attacks
- Tinubu Misses Lagos Project Commissioning Over Security Briefings — Aide
- How 500-Level Covenant University Student Died During Football Training
- Lagos Seals Two Properties Over Environmental Infractions
- Akpabio Leads Lagos Project Commissioning On Tinubu’s Behalf
Ayeni reiterated that only a transparent legal process can adequately address the allegations raised against him. He insisted that resolving the dispute privately would trivialise both the gravity of the accusations and the emotional toll they have taken.
“Accepting a private settlement would undermine the seriousness of the accusations and the damage they have inflicted on my person, my family, and loved ones,” he stated.
He further warned friends and associates against attempting to mediate, noting that any effort to persuade him on Alagwu’s behalf amounted to a personal affront. Ayeni said Alagwu, her mother, and her family should only be dealt with strictly within the confines of the ongoing court case.
The businessman confirmed that the matter is still before a competent court and reaffirmed his intention to testify openly on November 25, 2025, and February 17, 2026.
Ayeni also criticised what he described as Alagwu’s reluctance to appear at the customary court, urging her to show up and defend herself when proceedings resume.
He maintained that he has acted with integrity throughout the ordeal and dismissed claims that he is being influenced by external forces.
“I am a man of my own conviction and I trust the justice system to uphold the truth,” he said.
Ayeni expressed optimism that the court process would restore his image and finally bring an end to what he termed an unfortunate chapter in his life.
Meanwhile, the Ayeni family recently confirmed that the long-running paternity crisis involving Alagwu and her daughter, Omarosa, has been resolved. They stated that the evidence presented cleared the businessman of any paternal link, marking a definitive closure to that aspect of the controversy.