Rumours of the Willie Obiano death rumour spread quickly on Monday, creating confusion and shock across Anambra State.
Many residents were thrown into panic as unverified posts circulated online claiming that the former governor had died abroad.
The claims moved fast, leaving close associates in tears and causing widespread concern among his supporters.
However, the story took an unexpected turn when his former Commissioner for Information, Mr. C. Don Adinuba, publicly debunked the report.
He stated that Chief Obiano was alive, healthy and living quietly in the United States.
His clarification came at a crucial moment when anxieties were rising and misinformation was spreading at great speed.
In a statement sent to the media, Adinuba expressed strong disapproval of the viral claims.
He said: “The Nigerian media have been abuzz in the last couple of hours over a rumour that the immediate Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has passed on in London.”
He added that the rumour had no foundation.
According to him: “This rumour has no basis. Chief Obiano lives in Texas, United States, and not London. He is not just alive, but healthy, strong and too agile for someone who has just turned 70 years.”
Moreover, Adinuba thanked friends and supporters who expressed concern.
He said: “We thank people from different walks of life across the globe for their acute interest in the former governor whose large heartedness and record of service delivery remain solid by any standard.”
Furthermore, he noted the emotional reactions triggered by the false report.
He explained: “The outpouring of love across the globe following the rumour shows how much Chief Obiano matters to many, almost four years after leaving public office and choosing a quite private life abroad.”
The statement also drew a historical link to past false alarms.
Adinuba reminded the public that: “At only 70 years, Chief Obiano has joined the pantheon of men like The Great Zik of Africa whose rumoured death turned out to be utterly false and without any foundation.”
In addition, another aide, Onyebuchi Okpala, also appealed for calm on social media.
In his post, he wrote: “Please umunnem ndi Anambra, disregard the fake news on social media.
His Excellency Chief William Mmaduaburochukwu Obiano is still alive.
Please shun the fake death news of Our principal and Boss Akpokuedike Global.
It’s not true please, Akpokuedike is alive. We pray for more good, sound health and happiness.”
Meanwhile, Obiano, who governed Anambra State from 2014 to 2022, is currently facing trial before a Federal High Court over alleged mismanagement of N4 billion.
He relocated to Houston, Texas, after leaving office and has since maintained a private lifestyle away from political noise.
Therefore, the Willie Obiano death rumour stands dismissed, with his aides insisting he remains in good health.
