Kuda Technologies, a prominent digital banking platform operating across Nigeria and the United Kingdom, is embroiled in a legal dispute following allegations of gender discrimination and wrongful termination. The company’s former Group Chief People Officer (CPO), Rosemary Hewat, has filed a complaint with the U.K. Employment Tribunal, accusing Kuda and its CEO, Babatunde Ogundeyi, of sex discrimination, victimization, and unfair dismissal.
Allegations of a Hostile Work Environment
Hewat, who served as CPO from August 2021 until her departure in April 2024, claims she was subjected to prolonged mistreatment that culminated in her forced exit. The legal filing, reviewed by TechCrunch, details incidents of alleged discriminatory behavior contradicting Kuda’s stated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies.
One notable incident described in the complaint occurred during a company retreat in Lagos in December 2023. Hewat alleges that CEO Ogundeyi publicly berated two female employees, referring to them as “low class” and accusing them of lacking “quality or luxury,” actions that reportedly left the employees in tears. This event is presented as part of a broader pattern of behavior that created an “intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, and offensive” workplace for women at Kuda.
Disputes Over Equity Compensation
A dispute regarding her employee stock options (ESOP) is central to Hewat’s complaint. Upon joining Kuda, she was allegedly promised equity valued at several hundred thousand dollars based on the company’s Series A valuation. However, formal documentation was delayed, and when the ESOP grant was issued in April 2022, it was based on the higher Series B valuation, effectively reducing the value of her equity. Hewat contends that other executives received more favorable terms and that her attempts to address this discrepancy were dismissed by leadership.
Termination and Aftermath
The situation escalated in February 2024 when Hewat was abruptly terminated while en route to an executive retreat in Lagos. She asserts that her dismissal was in retaliation for raising concerns about discriminatory practices and inequitable treatment within the company. Following her termination, Hewat alleges that Kuda engaged in further retaliatory actions, including withholding salary payments, canceling health insurance, and denying full holiday pay, leading to her formal resignation in April 2024.
Kuda’s Response
In response to inquiries, a Kuda spokesperson acknowledged the legal proceedings but declined to provide detailed comments, stating, “As this is currently a legal matter, we’re unable to provide any additional information. In line with our current policy and out of respect for privacy, we do not comment on matters of this nature involving current or former employees.”
Broader Implications
This case places Kuda, which has secured significant venture funding—including a $55 million Series B round in 2021—under intense scrutiny. It also highlights ongoing concerns about workplace culture and gender equality within the African tech industry. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for Kuda’s reputation and its ability to attract and retain top talent in a competitive market.
As the tech industry continues to grapple with issues of discrimination and harassment, this lawsuit serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering inclusive and respectful workplace environments. The full hearing is scheduled for October 2025, and its proceedings are likely to be closely monitored by industry stakeholders and observers committed to promoting equity and accountability in the workplace.
and then