Claim:
Former Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, is dead.
Full Text:
Rumours circulating across social media platforms and some online blogs claim that Chief Willie Obiano, a former governor of Anambra State, has passed away in London. These reports quickly spread, prompting concerns among citizens and fueling discussions online.
Some posts alleged that Obiano collapsed and died while receiving treatment abroad, with others claiming he had been secretly flown to London before his supposed death.
In reaction to the rumour, several individuals and media outlets began seeking confirmation, given Obiano’s status as a former governor and the sensitivity surrounding such reports.
Verification:
FactCheckAfrica found reports and reviewed official statements. Don Adinuba, former Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment in Anambra State, debunked the rumour in a statement released on Friday.
According to Adinuba, Chief Willie Obiano is alive, healthy, and currently residing in Texas, United States, not London as claimed.
He stated:
“The Nigerian media have been abuzz in the last couple of hours over a rumour that the immediate past Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has passed on in London. This rumour has no basis. Chief Obiano lives in Texas, United States, and not London.”
Adinuba further confirmed that he had personally spoken with Obiano 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.”
No credible media outlet, official family source, or government authority has reported any incident concerning Obiano’s health or death.
Also, checks with MyAIfactchecker returned negative, showing that the reports that the former governor is dead is misleading.
Verdict:
False!
Conclusion:
Our findings show that Willie Obiano is alive, healthy, and residing in the United States. The viral reports alleging that he died in London are completely unfounded and misleading.
