Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has dismissed recent rumours circulating on social media claiming that former Governor Chief Willie Obiano had passed away in a London hospital. According to the governor, the reports are entirely false and spread with malicious intent.
In a statement released through his Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo said he personally spoke with Obiano and confirmed that the former governor is alive and in good health. “I view with grave concern the reckless circulation of such malicious rumours. It is both wicked and completely irresponsible,” the statement read.
The governor expressed frustration over the rapid spread of unverified news online, emphasizing that such actions erode public trust in the media and create unnecessary panic among citizens.
Governor Soludo specifically addressed media practitioners, particularly online publishers, urging them to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying information before publication. He stressed that spreading false news, especially about the death of a public figure, is not only irresponsible but also harmful to society.
“The spread of unverified death rumours is both wicked and irresponsible. Media practitioners must ensure that any information they publish is confirmed through official channels,” Soludo said.
He warned that the circulation of false news can damage reputations, create confusion, and provoke unnecessary emotional distress among family members, supporters, and the general public. Soludo’s warning comes at a time when misinformation has become a growing concern in Nigeria, with social media platforms often used to spread unverified stories quickly.
The governor also called on government officials, community leaders, and citizens to be cautious when sharing information online and to prioritize accuracy over speed. He reiterated that responsible reporting and careful verification of facts are essential to maintaining public trust.
Governor Soludo assured the people of Anambra State and the general public that Chief Willie Obiano is hale and hearty. He also took the opportunity to wish his predecessor continued strength, peace, and a long, fulfilling life.
Obiano served as Governor of Anambra State from 2014 to 2022, and during his tenure, he was known for infrastructure development, security initiatives, and economic programs aimed at improving the welfare of citizens. Since leaving office, he has maintained a relatively low public profile, which may have contributed to the emergence of false rumours about his health.
Social media platforms, which have become the primary source of news for many Nigerians, have been criticized in recent years for allowing the rapid spread of unverified stories. Experts note that false reports can have serious social consequences, ranging from public panic to undermining confidence in legitimate institutions.
Governor Soludo’s statement highlights the growing need for responsible media practices and citizen awareness in an era where information travels faster than it can be verified. By publicly confirming Obiano’s wellbeing, the governor aimed to halt the circulation of false news and reassure the public that there is no cause for concern regarding the former governor’s health.
The Anambra State government continues to encourage citizens to rely on official statements and credible news sources for information. Officials emphasize that the public should disregard sensational claims online and instead seek verification from trusted authorities.
