Kuda Technologies, a prominent African digital bank, and its CEO, Babatunde Ogundeyi, are facing serious allegations of workplace misconduct. Rosemary Hewat, Kuda’s former Group Chief People Officer (CPO), has filed a lawsuit claiming sex discrimination, unfair dismissal, and a toxic work environment.
According to the legal filing, Hewat alleges that Kuda, despite its public image of gender inclusivity, fostered a culture where women were undermined and excluded. She claims that Ogundeyi made disparaging remarks about female employees and cultivated an environment of fear, where employees felt unable to approach him.
Hewat’s complaint also centers on a dispute over her employee stock options (ESOP). She alleges that she was offered stock options at a higher valuation compared to a male colleague in a similar role. After raising concerns about these issues and other discriminatory practices, Hewat says she was unfairly terminated in February 2024. Kuda’s CTO reportedly admitted the firing was a mistake and invited her to return.
Kuda has acknowledged the lawsuit but has declined to comment on the specific allegations. The case is set to be heard in October. This legal challenge puts Kuda, which has raised significant venture funding, under scrutiny at a time when African companies are facing increasing pressure to improve governance and corporate accountability
