Henry Ikeji, Chairman, Zube Sunstar Group of Companies has described allegations of fraud and business sabotage against him as a “coordinated campaign of calumny, and character assassination” by disgruntled elements.
Ikeji, who is also the founder of Nzube Ikeji Foundation, said this in a statement by its management in Abuja on Monday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the group chairman on Monday, submitted himself to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) for interrogations.
The EFCC Spokesperson, Mr Dele Oyewale, confirmed that Ikeji was invited by the commission and he honoured the invitation.
The statement explained that Ikeji had earlier reported to the EFCC to clear himself of the allegations levelled against him.
The management explained that the smear campaign was allegedly orchestrated by a former associate, who was involved in a business deal with him.
“The allegations against Ikeji are “100 per cent false, malicious, and a desperate fabrication,” it stated.
It stated that the associate reportedly sought to hijack a licensing project with a federal ministry, and resorted to blackmail when his efforts failed.
The statement categorically denied allegations of his involvement with a “Romanian woman” and claims of criminal activities in Dubai, citing that Ikeji has never traveled to Dubai.
“Allegations suggesting criminal activities in Dubai are demonstrably false. Mr Henry Ikeji has never traveled to Dubai in his life.
“His international travel history is a matter of public record and is available for verification by the relevant authorities.
“Mr Henry Ikeji has no knowledge of, nor any association with, any “Romanian woman.”
“This “cheap blackmail” is a ghost-story manufactured to tarnish the reputation of a man who has spent years building a legitimate business and humanitarian legacy in Delta State and Abuja,” it stated.
The statement claimed that beyond the media attacks, the associate had issued direct threats against Henry’s person and family.
“These threats have been documented and are currently being reviewed by our legal team.
It also documented threats and harassment from the associate, which were being reviewed by Ikeji’s legal team.
It stated that Ikeji had instructed his legal counsel to commence defamation proceedings against those involved and petition security agencies to investigate the threats.
It appealed to stakeholders to disregard the allegations, citing them as a failed attempt at a hostile takeover.
The management team assured that the businessman’s integrity remained intact, backed by evidence to be shared with partners and stakeholders.
