Olakunle Churchill Denies Arrest In Switzerland, Says Report Is Attempt To Tarnish His Reputation

Nigerian businessman and philanthropist Olakunle Churchill has denied reports claiming that he was arrested in Switzerland in connection with an alleged tax investigation, describing the publication as false and malicious.

The report, which circulated across several online platforms, alleged that Churchill was arrested by Swiss authorities over an investigation involving a company reportedly linked to one of his business associates.

According to the publication, the company was allegedly being investigated over suspected tax evasion relating to its agricultural importation and international trade operations.

The report further claimed that the company, which reportedly has an annual turnover of more than $15 million and has maintained the figure for about 13 years, had a business relationship with the Churchill Group of Companies.

It also alleged that Churchill had been taken into custody while legal representatives were working to secure his release.

However, reacting to the report in a post shared on his social media platforms, Churchill categorically denied that he had been arrested or was facing any legal proceedings involving Swiss authorities.

He described the report as an attempt to damage his reputation and expressed frustration over what he described as the spread of false information about Nigerians by other Nigerians.

“For the record, I have no police case, no court case… nothing of that sort. I also choose not to put my assets or businesses on public display, and that is entirely my decision,” Churchill said.

The businessman further alleged that some Nigerians living abroad had made a practice of investigating his personal affairs and resorting to what he described as fabricated stories when they could not find wrongdoing against him.

“When they can’t find anything to hold against you, they resort to fabricating stories in an attempt to damage your reputation,” he stated.

Churchill maintained that the reports would not distract him from his personal and business activities, expressing confidence that the allegations would not alter the truth.

“Thankfully, lies don’t change the truth. What God has blessed, no one can curse. I remain focused, unbothered and grateful for God’s grace,” he added.

The businessman did not provide further details about the company referenced in the report or the business relationship allegedly under scrutiny.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no independent confirmation from Swiss authorities that Churchill had been arrested or was the subject of a tax-related investigation. The allegations therefore remain unverified, while Churchill maintains that the report is false and intended to damage his reputation.