Former Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has personally and definitively debunked widespread rumors of his death, reassuring the public that he is “alive, hale, hearty, and in excellent health.” In a statement issued on Thursday, 14 November 2025, through his official contact and reiterated on his Facebook page, Obiano condemned the “unfortunate and baseless” misinformation that had circulated on social media earlier in the week. He extended gratitude to all who reached out with concerns, emphasizing that their “love and goodwill mean more than words can express” and urged everyone to completely disregard the falsehoods.

The denial was strongly corroborated by Mr. C-Don Adinuba, who served as Commissioner for Information under Obiano's administration. Adinuba vehemently dismissed the reports as “false and misleading,” stressing that Chief Obiano is not only alive, healthy, strong, and remarkably agile for someone who has just turned 70, but also resides in Houston, Texas, United States, and not London, as some rumors suggested. Adinuba warned against “irresponsible journalism” and emphasized the damage fake news inflicts on society, extending beyond just Obiano to journalistic ethics at large.

The persistent rumors, which caused significant public speculation and distress among Obiano's supporters, claimed that the former governor had passed away in a London hospital due to complications from urinary cancer and severe heart failure. These reports, which emerged on social media and certain online platforms, including some referencing Sahara Reporters, suggested a rapid deterioration of his health and intensive medical care. However, Obiano's personal publicist, Ozo Tony Nezianya, also indicated he had no confirmation of such news, while close family relatives denied the reports as “completely false.”

Chief Willie Obiano, who governed Anambra State from March 2014 to March 2022, remains a prominent figure. Born on 8 August 1955, in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, he holds a degree in accountancy from the University of Lagos and had a career in banking and business before entering public service. His administration was known for infrastructural projects and economic initiatives but also faced criticism for alleged financial mismanagement and state debt accumulation. He is currently facing charges from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged misappropriation of N4 billion during his tenure, with a nine-count money laundering case before the Federal High Court in Abuja. A hearing on October 7, 2024, involved testimony from a former commercial bank employee, Ugochukwu Otubelu, regarding a security vote account. Despite the ongoing legal matters and the recent surge of misinformation, Obiano expressed optimism, signing off his message with “We remain focused, grateful, and guided by God’s grace. Daalu nu, and may God bless you all.”