Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating online claiming that its Founder and Chairman, Chief Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, CON, is dead, insisting that the renowned industrialist is alive and actively leading the company.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the company’s management described the publication as entirely baseless, urging the public to ignore the report and rely only on information released through its official communication channels.
“We wish to unequivocally state that this claim is false, misleading, and entirely without factual basis. Chief Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, CON, is alive, well, and continues to provide leadership as the Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd.,” the statement read.
According to the company, the false report appeared to have confused its chairman with another individual bearing the same name, stressing that the distinction had previously been clarified by independent fact-checking organisations.
“The publication appears to have confused our Chairman with another individual who bore the same name but was an entirely different person. This distinction has previously been clarified by reputable independent fact-checking organisations,” it stated.
The indigenous automobile manufacturer appealed to customers, business partners, dealers, financial institutions, government agencies and other stakeholders to disregard the publication.
“We urge members of the public, our valued customers, business partners, dealers, financial institutions, government agencies, and all stakeholders to disregard the false publication and rely solely on information released through the Company’s official communication channels,” the company said.
IVM also disclosed that it had initiated legal action against the publisher of the report, demanding an immediate retraction and public apology.
“Our legal representatives have formally written to the publisher demanding an immediate retraction, a public apology, and the cessation of the dissemination of the false information. We remain committed to pursuing all lawful measures necessary to protect the reputation of our Chairman and safeguard the integrity of our Company,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to Nigeria’s industrial growth, the company said it would remain focused on its core mission despite the misinformation.
“Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd. remains focused on its mission of producing world-class vehicles, advancing Nigeria’s industrial development, and delivering quality products and exceptional service to our customers,” it stated.
The company also expressed appreciation to Nigerians, customers and business partners for their continued support and confidence.
“We sincerely appreciate the concern, goodwill, and continued confidence shown by our customers, business partners, and the Nigerian public. Your trust remains the foundation of our continued growth and success,” the statement concluded.
