Nigerian businessman Dr. Tunde Ayeni has rejected an alleged back-door settlement proposal from lawyer Adaobi Alagwu, insisting their dispute must be resolved publicly in court to clear his reputation
Ayeni Rejects ‘Back-Door’ Settlement Offer, Insists on Public Trial in Dispute With Adaobi Alagwu
Nigerian businessman Dr. Tunde Ayeni has dismissed an alleged out-of-court settlement proposal said to have been initiated informally by lawyer Adaobi Alagwu, stressing that their ongoing dispute must be addressed openly before a court of law.
In a statement on Monday, Ayeni confirmed that Alagwu made what he described as “back-door overtures” in a bid to privately resolve the controversy between them. He said the approach was unexpected, given the massive public attention and reputational damage he believes he has suffered.
“I confirm that through back-door channels, Alagwu has indeed made overtures towards settling this matter outside the courtroom,” Ayeni said. “This development was unexpected, considering the significant public attention, embarrassment, and reputational damage it has caused me, my family, and my loved ones.”
Ayeni also hinted that Alagwu’s renewed interest in a quiet settlement may be linked to what he called her “alleged pending marriage.” He, however, noted that such motives are irrelevant to him, as his priority is restoring his image publicly.
“Despite these attempts, I am resolute in rejecting any private settlement,” he declared. “The allegations have damaged my reputation publicly, and I am committed to seeking full legal redress in the open. Accepting a private arrangement would undermine the seriousness of the accusations.”
Ayeni cautioned friends and associates against intervening or mentioning Alagwu in conversations with him, saying doing so amounts to “a personal insult.”
“Adaobi, her mother, or any member of her family are no longer subjects of discussion outside the litigations pending in court,” he said. “No one should act as an intermediary on this matter.”
Reaffirming his commitment to a transparent legal process, Ayeni said he is prepared to testify in open court on 25 November 2025 and 17 February 2026, adding that he expects Alagwu to also be present—unlike her “alleged absence” during earlier customary court sessions.
He maintained that he has acted with full transparency since the controversy erupted and intends to clear his name through lawful means.
“I acknowledge the role I have played in this situation and I am taking steps to move past it,” he said. “Encouraging an out-of-court settlement would only feed the false narrative that I am being influenced to pursue this case because they believe I lack my own convictions. That is absolutely untrue.”
The dispute between Ayeni and Alagwu has attracted widespread public attention, with both parties now preparing for the next phase of what promises to be a high-profile legal showdown. Read More
