Reports of the death of former Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, have been strongly denied by his former Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Don Adinuba. The conflicting narratives emerged on social media and certain online platforms, prompting widespread public speculation about Obiano’s health and ongoing legal matters.
Adinuba issued a statement on Thursday, describing the reports of Obiano’s death as “false and misleading” and urging the public to disregard them. “I spoke with Chief Obiano just this morning. He is hale and hearty. There is no truth to the rumour about his death,” he said, warning against what he termed “irresponsible journalism.”
The former commissioner stressed that such unverified information could cause unnecessary panic and distress, not only to Obiano’s family and supporters but also within the wider political community.
“This is not just about Chief Obiano. It’s about journalistic ethics and the damage fake news continues to do in our society,” Adinuba added.
The rumours, which claimed that Obiano had passed away in a London hospital following complications from urinary cancer and severe heart failure, circulated shortly after reports from Sahara Reporters suggested his health had deteriorated rapidly. According to sources cited in these reports, the former governor had been under intensive medical care in London, with his condition worsening over recent months.
Obiano, who served as Anambra State’s governor from March 2014 to March 2022, has faced scrutiny from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged misappropriation of N4 billion during his tenure. The alleged charges remain unresolved, and the conflicting reports have sparked renewed discussion about the legal and political implications of his health status.
Supporters and allies of Obiano have dismissed the death reports, describing them as potentially politically motivated. Meanwhile, family sources have not issued an official statement, though they confirmed that the former governor is aware of the rumours and has opted not to respond publicly.
Chief Obiano, born on 8 August 1955 in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, holds a degree in accountancy from the University of Lagos and previously worked in banking and business before entering public service. His administration was noted for infrastructural projects and economic initiatives, though it faced criticism for alleged financial mismanagement and state debt accumulation.
As the situation remains fluid, the clarification from Adinuba has eased some immediate tension, but the episode has reignited conversations about the importance of verification in reporting, particularly concerning prominent public figures.
