“I Am Alive and Hearty”: Willie Obiano Debunks Viral Death Rumour in New Video
Former Anambra Governor Speaks From Abroad, Says Rumour Will ‘Only Extend My Life’
Former Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has firmly dismissed widespread rumours circulating on social media that he had passed away. In a video obtained by Akahi News, the former governor appeared relaxed and in high spirits as he debunked the claims, describing them as baseless and mischievous.
In the now-viral clip, Chief Willie Obiano, who spoke in Igbo, assured the public that he remains alive, hale, and hearty.
He said: “As you can see, I am in my house. I didn’t go to the hospital, and I didn’t travel to London. We give God the glory. The rumour is for them to extend my life and that is how it is going to be through Christ Our Lord.”
The 70-year-old former governor, who now resides in the United States, dismissed the report with calm confidence, adding a spiritual reflection that resonated with many viewers.
A Viral Panic That Spread Across Anambra Media Space
Akahi News gathered that earlier on Friday, the rumour of Obiano’s alleged death spread rapidly across Anambra media platforms and several social media pages, leading to widespread panic and even tears among some of his former aides and political associates.
Many of those close to Chief Willie Obiano described him as a generous leader and humane personality, which may explain the emotional reactions following the fake news.
C. Don Adinuba: “The Rumour Has No Basis”
In a swift reaction, former Anambra Commissioner for Information, Mr C. Don Adinuba, issued a strongly worded statement dismissing the rumour.
According to him, the claim was not only false but also geographically inaccurate.
Adinuba clarified that:
“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.”
He added that the outpouring of love following the rumour shows how much Chief Willie Obiano still matters to many people—almost four years after leaving office.
He further likened the false report to similar fake death rumours once issued against prominent figures such as The Great Zik of Africa, which eventually proved entirely untrue.
Aides and Associates Rally to Debunk the Fake News
The rumour prompted several of Obiano’s former aides and associates to speak out.
Onyebuchi Okpala, a loyal aide, wrote on Facebook:
“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.”
Uche Nworah, former Managing Director/CEO of Anambra Broadcasting Service, added:
“Our boss and former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, is hale and hearty. Please ignore social media rumours.”
James Eze, another close associate, expressed shock at the falsehood, saying:
“I am yet to fathom the nature of the evil that creeps into some people to make them issue a false obituary of someone else.”
The swift response from multiple sources helped calm growing tension among supporters and political stakeholders in Anambra State.
Obiano’s Post-Governorship Life and Ongoing Trial
Akahi News gathered that after serving as governor of Anambra State from 2014 to 2022, Chief Willie Obiano relocated to Houston, Texas, where he has lived quietly with his family.
Before becoming governor, Obiano built a respected career in the banking sector, rising to a senior executive position at Fidelity Bank.
Despite his retirement into private life, he is currently standing trial before a Federal High Court for allegedly mismanaging N4 billion during his tenure as governor—an allegation he has consistently denied.
A Reminder of the Dangers of Fake News
The incident has once again sparked conversations about the dangerous speed at which misinformation spreads online.
Fake death announcements have become increasingly common in Nigeria’s digital space, often causing fear and confusion before the truth eventually emerges.
The response from Chief Willie Obiano and his associates underscores the need for Nigerians to verify information before sharing it, especially on sensitive matters involving public figures.
The former Anambra governor remains very much alive, active, and in good health, contrary to social media rumours. His calm and faith-filled message, as seen by Akahi News, brought an end to the misinformation spree and reassured his supporters across the country.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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