Female Lawyer Again Absent In Paternity Dispute With Ex-Skye Bank Chairman, Tunde Ayeni
An Abuja Customary Court has adjourned until March 4, 2025, the paternity suit filed by former Skye Bank Chairman, Tunde Ayeni, against Abuja-based lawyer Adaobi Alagwu, after the respondent failed to appear for the second consecutive hearing.
The case, which has drawn widespread public interest, revolves around Ayeni’s denial of fathering Alagwu’s child, despite her claims to the contrary. The businessman has maintained that while he briefly dated Alagwu in 2019, he is not the biological father of her daughter and has demanded a court declaration to that effect.
Ayeni, who has been married to his wife Dr. Biola Ayeni for over 30 years, also disputed any marital ties with Alagwu. He admitted in court that he paid a customary sum to her family in 2022 but insisted that it was not for marriage—rather, he was pressured by Alagwu’s father, who sought to prevent social stigma by ensuring the child bore his name.
Alagwu was expected to appear before the court on February 11, 2025, but failed to do so, prompting an adjournment to February 17, 2025. However, she was absent once again, leading the court to reschedule the matter for March 4, 2025.
A source present at the hearing revealed that Alagwu’s legal representatives apologised for her absence and presented a medical report claiming she was unwell. The source further alleged that Alagwu may be avoiding court due to increased media attention surrounding the case.
The case took another twist after Alagwu reportedly released a DNA test result, claiming it confirmed Ayeni as the child’s father. However, Ayeni swiftly dismissed the document as fake, stating that an independent investigation proved the test result had been doctored.
Observers have also pointed out cultural inconsistencies in Alagwu’s claims. According to Igbo tradition, it is taboo for bride price to be paid for a woman who is already pregnant, further raising questions about the legitimacy of her allegations.
Ayeni has urged the court to expedite proceedings, describing the case as a campaign of blackmail and public deception. He reiterated that he has no ties to Alagwu or her child and called for a formal ruling to put the matter to rest.
The high-profile paternity battle continues to generate heated discussions, with many questioning why Alagwu has avoided direct court engagement despite making public claims about her child’s paternity. With the next hearing set for March 4, 2025, all eyes remain on the courtroom for further developments in this contentious legal dispute.
