Innocent Ulasi, the CEO of Otolo Cars Ltd., has publicly responded to allegations circulating that his former apprentice, Ani Chisom Bright, took his own life after being denied settlement at the completion of his apprenticeship. These claims have sparked outrage on social media and within the local business community.
In a statement released by Ulasi on Tuesday, the businessman expressed his deep shock and sorrow over Bright’s tragic death but firmly denied the allegations of withholding the young man’s settlement. “I am devastated by the loss of Ani Chisom Bright, a hardworking and dedicated individual. However, I want to categorically state that these accusations against me are completely false and misleading. At no point did I refuse to settle him, nor was there any intent to harm his future prospects,” Ulasi said.
According to Ulasi, Bright will complete his apprenticeship later this year (25th December 2024) and was in the process of finalizing the settlement arrangement, a procedure that usually involves documentation and family involvement.
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The news of Bright’s alleged suicide spread rapidly after his body was discovered in his home last weekend. Friends and family members claimed that Bright had been under significant emotional distress over the delayed settlement, which they believe contributed to his decision to take his own life.
Ulasi extended his condolences to Bright’s family, asking people to allow the family some freedom to mourn their son at this painful time.
Read the report below:
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Otolo Cars Responds to Tragic Passing of Ani Chisom Bright
Nnewi, Nigeria– It is with profound sorrow that we address the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the passing of Ani Chisom Bright, a young man who dedicated over six years to his position at Otolo Cars. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
We feel it is necessary to address and clarify the allegations that have surfaced regarding Mr. Bright’s death, particularly those suggesting that it resulted from failure to provide appropriate settlement after years of service. We firmly assert that these claims are unfounded and misrepresent the true context of the situation.
Key Points of Clarification:
1. Fair Treatment: Ani Chisom Bright was treated fairly and received regular compensation during his tenure. He was provided with a monthly stipend of ₦25,000 and provisions for food, along with sales commissions, similarities shared with his colleagues in line with our company’s standard practices.
2. Agreed Settlement Timeline: Despite his request for an early settlement, it was communicated to Mr. Bright that his official settlement date was agreed upon for December 25, 2024, in a meeting attended by all relevant parties.
3. Abscondment from Employment: Mr. Bright absconded from the company for over three months prior to his tragic demise. His departure from the company was done without notice, and attempts to reach him were unsuccessful.
4. Living Situation: Important information has emerged indicating that Mr. Bright had relocated to Asaba, living with individuals unrelated to Otolo Cars during a precarious phase of his life.
5. Investigation: It is critical to note that the circumstances surrounding Mr. Bright’s death should be subject to a thorough investigation. We encourage the authorities to carry out an impartial review of the events leading up to this tragedy.
6. Respect for the Family: We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Bright’s family and urge the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and unverified claims that add to their grief during this challenging time.
Call for Reflection:
We invite the public to consider the surrounding details and refraining from making hasty judgments based on incomplete narratives. The allegations against Otolo Cars and our chairman, Chief Innocent Ulasi, are overpowering and have already caused significant distress. Our commitment remains towards maintaining a transparent discussion and focusing on the truth that honors Mr. Bright’s memory.
In closing, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting our employees and apprentices with respect and fairness. Otolo Cars will cooperate fully with any legal inquiry to ensure that the truth surrounding this tragic incident is brought to light. We ask the public to allow this process to unfold with the sensitivity and respect that it merits.
Thank you.
Chief Innocent Ulasi
Chairman, Otolo Cars
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