Defamation: Tunde Ayeni snubs back-door settlement, eyes full legal redress

Nigerian businessman Dr. Tunde Ayeni has dismissed reports of an alleged out-of-court settlement proposal reportedly initiated by lawyer Adaobi Alagwu, insisting that their ongoing dispute must be resolved publicly in court.

In a statement on Monday, Ayeni confirmed that Alagwu had made what he described as “back-door overtures” to settle the matter privately.

He expressed surprise at the attempt, given the high public scrutiny and the reputational damage he claims to have suffered.

“I confirm that through back-door channels, Alagwu has indeed made overtures towards settling this matter outside the courtroom,” Ayeni said.

“This was unexpected considering the significant public attention and embarrassment it has caused me and my family.”

Ayeni suggested that Alagwu’s renewed interest in a private settlement may be related to her “alleged pending marriage,” but stressed that such matters are irrelevant to him.

His primary goal, he said, is to publicly restore his reputation.

“Despite these attempts, I am resolute in rejecting any private settlement,” he stated.

“The allegations have damaged my reputation, and I am committed to seeking full legal redress openly.”

He also warned friends and associates against acting as intermediaries or mentioning Alagwu or her family, describing such actions as “a personal insult.”

Ayeni confirmed he is ready to testify in court on 25 November 2025 and 17 February 2026 and expects Alagwu to attend, contrasting it with her alleged absence during earlier customary court sessions.

He emphasized his commitment to transparency and insisted that pursuing an out-of-court settlement would only fuel false narratives about his motivations.

The dispute between Ayeni and Alagwu has drawn widespread public interest as both parties prepare for the next stage of their legal battle.