The former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, is alive and in good health, contrary to widespread rumours circulating on social media claiming that the ex-governor had passed away in London. The false reports, which began to spread on Thursday night and intensified across various online platforms, prompted public concern and media inquiries into the veracity of the claims.
However, former Anambra State Commissioner for Information under the Obiano administration, Mr. C-Don Adinuba, has firmly dismissed the rumours, describing them as not only false but malicious and provocative. Speaking in a telephone interview with our correspondent on Friday, Adinuba said he had personally confirmed Obiano’s wellbeing shortly before responding to journalists’ inquiries.
According to him, the former governor is currently in Houston, Texas, in the United States, where he resides with his family, and has not been in London as was alleged by the misleading social media reports.
“I have been asked some probing questions by journalists and have heard a provocative rumour about the death of former Governor Willie Obiano. The rumour is not true,” Adinuba stated emphatically. “I just spoke with the former governor and members of his family a few minutes ago. He is hale and hearty in Houston, United States, where he resides.”
Adinuba further clarified that Obiano had not been hospitalised, contrary to the claims being circulated. “Contrary to the reports, Obiano is not in London and has not been hospitalised. He is strong, hale, and hearty, and bouncing in the US. Ignore the rumour—it is not from a credible source. Please, the report is fake; Obiano is still alive.”
Anatomy of a Rumour
The false reports emerged from a series of anonymous social media posts claiming that the former governor had died in London after an undisclosed illness. The posts, some of which went viral, included fabricated details alleging that Obiano had been flown abroad for emergency treatment.
These claims triggered confusion among residents of Anambra State, political observers, and members of the public who took to social media to express shock and seek clarification. Some online commentators, acting on unverified information, even began circulating condolence messages and speculations about Obiano’s political legacy.
In response, several journalists reached out to close associates of the former governor for confirmation. It was during one such inquiry that Adinuba publicly debunked the rumour.
A Pattern of Fake Death Claims
This is not the first time a prominent Nigerian political figure has been targeted by false reports of death. Over the past decade, several politicians, business leaders, and public personalities have been victims of similar misinformation, often prompting family members or aides to issue public statements to counter the claims.
Observers say that fake news of this nature often emerges during politically sensitive periods or when public attention is focused on high-profile personalities. In Obiano’s case, analysts believe the rumour may have been fuelled by ongoing political tensions within Anambra State, where various political blocs are repositioning themselves ahead of future elections.
Obiano’s Post-Governorship Life
Chief Willie Obiano, who served as governor of Anambra State from 2014 to 2022, relocated to the United States after leaving office. During his tenure, Obiano was known for his investments in security architecture, agricultural development, and infrastructure projects.
After completing his second term, he took a step back from frontline politics and has largely remained out of the public eye. This low public visibility may have provided fertile ground for speculation and misinformation about his wellbeing.
Sources close to the former governor confirm that he maintains a quiet lifestyle in the US, occasionally receiving visitors and attending private engagements. According to Adinuba, Obiano is “active, healthy, and engaged with his family,” and has no health complications that could warrant emergency travel or hospitalisation.
Public Reaction to the Clarification
Following Adinuba’s statement, many Nigerians, particularly from Anambra State, expressed relief. Several social media users criticised those who propagated the rumour without verification, calling for greater responsibility in the use of online platforms.
Political associates and admirers of the former governor also welcomed the clarification, describing the false report as a “wicked fabrication” aimed at causing unnecessary tension. Some called on security agencies to investigate the origin of the rumour, warning that such misinformation can destabilise the public.
The Dangers of Misinformation
Media analysts say the Obiano incident underscores the growing danger of misinformation in Nigeria’s digital space. With millions of Nigerians depending on social media for news, unverified claims often spread rapidly, sometimes causing panic or reputational damage.
Experts argue that public figures remain especially vulnerable to fake news, as politically motivated actors may attempt to manipulate public opinion through deliberate falsehoods.
Adinuba, in his remarks, urged the public to exercise caution, warning that rumour-mongering can have serious consequences. “People need to be careful about what they choose to believe and circulate. Not every message should be forwarded or shared,” he said. “Some individuals derive pleasure from spreading fear or confusion, but the public must learn to verify information before accepting or amplifying it.”
A Call for Responsible Communication
The former commissioner emphasised that Nigerians must cultivate a culture of responsible communication, especially in matters concerning the health or status of public figures. He encouraged journalists and media houses to continue to fact-check sensitive information before publication.
“Journalists have been responsible, and I commend those who reached out for clarification before publishing stories,” he said. “Responsible journalism is still our strongest weapon against fake news.”
As of the time of publication, Chief Willie Obiano remains alive, healthy, and living quietly in Houston, Texas, with his family. The rumour of his death has been categorically dismissed by his close associate and former government spokesperson, Mr C-Don Adinuba, who described the claims as a deliberate falsehood.
The episode serves as yet another reminder of the need for vigilance in the age of misinformation and highlights the continued importance of accurate, verified reporting in maintaining public trust.
