Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has condemned rumors circulating on social media about the death of former Governor Chief Willie Obiano.
In a statement made on Friday by his press secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Soludo stated that reports alleging Obiano died in a London hospital were “malicious and utterly false.”
He stated that he had personally spoken with Obiano and could confirm that the former governor was alive and well.
“I view with grave concern the reckless circulation of such malicious rumors. It is both wicked and completely irresponsible.
“I strongly urge media practitioners, especially online publishers, to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying any information through official channels before rushing to publish.
“The spread of unverified death rumors is not only wicked and irresponsible but also erodes public trust,” the governor said.
Soludo asked the public to reject the trending news, telling them that Obiano was in good health.
He also wished the former governor continued strength, peace, and a long, productive life.
The former Anambra State Commissioner for Information under Governor Willie Obiano, Mr. C-Don Adinuba, had also debunked rumors of the ex-governor’s death, confirming that Obiano is hale and hearty in Houston, United States, where he currently resides.
“Contrary to the reports, Obiano is not in London and has not been hospitalized. He is strong, hale, and hearty, and bouncing in the US. Ignore the rumor—it is not from a credible source. Please, the report is fake; Obiano is still alive.”
Obiano served as governor of Anambra State from 2014 to 2022, succeeding Peter Obi and handing over to the current governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, in March 2022.
