Businessman Dr. Tunde Ayeni has confirmed that lawyer Adaobi Alagwu approached him through back‑channel overtures seeking an out‑of‑court settlement in their ongoing dispute, but says he has rejected any private offers and will pursue the matter openly in court.
In a statement obtained OBSERVERS TIMES obtained , Ayeni described the settlement overtures as unexpected given the public attention and reputational damage the controversy has caused him, his family and loved ones. He said that while Ms. Alagwu’s reported pending marriage may have motivated her to seek a private resolution, such factors are irrelevant to him and will not influence his decision.
“I have rejected any private offers of settlement,” Ayeni said in the statement, adding that accepting a private deal would undermine the seriousness of the allegations and the harm suffered by him and his family. He said his primary concern is the restoration of his reputation and that he is committed to seeking full legal redress in open court.
The matter is currently before a competent court, Ayeni noted, and he said he intends for the case to reach “a decisive and vindicating conclusion.” He used the statement to instruct friends and associates to refrain from involvement in anything concerning Ms. Alagwu and said he no longer considers mention of her name to be a friendly gesture.
Ayeni said he plans to testify in open court on 25 November 2025 and 17 February 2026, and expects Ms. Alagwu to attend those proceedings rather than avoid them. He added that he has been transparent about the matter, acknowledged his role in the situation, and trusts the justice system to establish the truth.
There was no immediate response from Ms. Alagwu or her representatives to Ayeni’s statement. The dispute remains before the courts.

