Former Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano, is alive, well, and in good health, despite widespread rumours on social media claiming he had passed away on Friday.
His former Commissioner for Information, C. Don Adinuba, dismissed the reports on Friday, describing them as false, mischievous, and capable of causing needless panic.
Adinuba said he had personally spoken with the former governor shortly before issuing the statement.
“Obiano has never lived in the United Kingdom. He lives in the United States of America. I just spoke with him now,” Adinuba said
He urged members of the public to disregard what he called baseless rumours, noting that such fabrications could create emotional distress for Obiano’s family, close associates, and the wider Anambra community.
“These unfounded claims are unnecessary and harmful. People should verify information before circulating it.”
Rumours of Obiano’s death trended heavily online earlier on Friday, sparking confusion among residents of Anambra State and political observers across the country.
Obiano, who governed Anambra State from 2014 to 2022, succeeded Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party.
Born on August 8, 1955, the former governor hails from Aguleri in the Anambra East Local Government Area and has largely maintained a private lifestyle since leaving office.
Adinuba reiterated that the former governor remains in the United States, where he has been residing.
