Paternity case: Ex-Skye Bank chairman Tunde Ayeni rejects out-of-court settlement offer

Former Chairman of Skye Bank Plc, Tunde Ayeni, has rejected what he described as “back-door overtures” from lawyer Adaobi Alagwu, seeking an out-of-court settlement in their ongoing legal dispute.

In a statement on Monday, Ayeni confirmed that Alagwu had initiated moves through informal channels to resolve the matter privately, a development he said was unexpected given the widespread public attention and reputational damage the controversy has caused him and his family.

Ayeni alleged that Alagwu’s decision may have been influenced by “personal reasons, including her reported forthcoming marriage,” but stressed that such considerations hold no weight in his pursuit of justice.

“My primary concern remains the restoration of my battered reputation, which has been severely impacted by this controversy,” he said.

He emphasised his resolve to seek public legal vindication, insisting that a private settlement would downplay the gravity of the allegations and the harm done to his integrity.

“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.

Ayeni also cautioned friends and associates against extending any form of mediation to him on Alagwu’s behalf, describing any such attempt as a personal insult. He declared that Alagwu, her mother, and members of her family should only be engaged within the limits of the ongoing litigation.

The businessman confirmed that the matter remains before a competent court and reaffirmed his commitment to testify in open court on November 25, 2025 and February 17, 2026.

He criticised Alagwu’s alleged avoidance of proceedings at the customary court and challenged her to appear and defend herself openly when the case resumes.

Ayeni maintained that he has been transparent throughout the dispute and dismissed insinuations that he is being influenced to pursue litigation.

“I am a man of my own conviction and I trust the justice system to uphold the truth,” he said.

He expressed confidence that legal processes will restore his reputation and bring closure to what he described as an unfortunate episode.

Recall that the family of billionaire businessman Tunde Ayeni has confirmed that the lingering paternity controversy involving Adaobi Alagwu and her daughter, Omarosa, has been resolved.

According to the family, all evidence presented has exonerated Ayeni from any paternal connection to the child, marking a definitive end to the saga.