- Eyitayo Ogunmola is the CEO of Utiva, a tech education company.
- Recent controversy arose regarding Utiva’s role in a client’s UK Global Talent Visa process.
- Ogunmola clarified that Utiva and its advisory arm, Techlocate, do not issue visas or provide legal immigration services.
Eyitayo Ogunmola, CEO of the tech education company Utiva, has responded to recent controversy surrounding claims made about his firm’s involvement in a client’s UK Global Talent Visa process.
Ogunmola clarified that neither Utiva nor its advisory arm, Techlocate, is involved in issuing visas or offering legal immigration services. Instead, Techlocate functions as a guidance platform, helping individuals prepare documentation for endorsement schemes such as the UK’s Global Talent Visa route.
“We’ve never represented ourselves as visa agents or immigration lawyers,” Ogunmola said. “Techlocate solely offers advisory and coaching services related to documentation and strategy. We do not handle visa applications or legal filings.”
Allegation and Clarification
The issue arose when a client, Steve Adodo, accused Ogunmola of breaching an agreement and failing to issue a refund for support services tied to his visa process.
According to Ogunmola, the agreement began on February 11, 2025, under a five-month engagement focused on securing a Tech Nation endorsement—an essential step before visa submission. He admitted that delays occurred during May and June due to his absence on official duties and acknowledged that Techlocate failed to reassign the client’s case in a timely manner.
“This delay was an operational oversight,” Ogunmola noted. “However, once the refund request was made, we committed to processing it promptly.”
Refund Was Already in Progress
He further explained that the refund process had already started when a journalist reached out to him on Friday, July 19. The plan was to issue an official response by Sunday, July 21, but the story was published before that could happen.
“By Monday, July 21, the refund had been completed, and the client was set to receive the full amount by the next day,” Ogunmola said. “Unfortunately, the report went live before we had the opportunity to share our side.”
No Legal Claims or Misrepresentation
Reaffirming the company’s position, Ogunmola stressed that Techlocate does not provide legal services, submit visa applications, or make promises of visa success. He also emphasized that Techlocate does not collect any government application fees or operate as a legal intermediary.
“We make our role clear to every client we provide coaching and preparation, not legal advice or visa guarantees. All final decisions rest with the UK Home Office,” he added.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Reflecting on the situation, Ogunmola said the experience has prompted internal improvements, particularly around continuity of service and reassignment protocols.
He also reaffirmed Utiva’s broader mission: “Utiva has helped over 45,000 young Africans acquire digital and tech skills. We recognize the importance of global career opportunities, and we’re committed to enhancing the way we support talents through this journey.”
Leave a Reply