I'm Alive: Former Governor Willie Obiano Breaks Silence on Death Rumors

Former Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has personally broken his silence to debunk widespread rumors of his death, confirming directly to the public that he is "alive, hale, hearty, and in excellent health."

In a clear and direct statement posted to his official Facebook page on Friday, November 14, 2025, Obiano moved swiftly to address the false claims that had spread across social media. The former governor assured the people of Anambra, his friends, and well-wishers that he is well and attributed his well-being to the "special grace of God."

Willie Obiano Breaks Silence: His Official Statement

In response, Willie Obiano breaks silence via his verified Facebook page. He posted a clear message: "I am alive and in good health." The statement emphasized his well-being, describing himself as "hale and hearty." This direct rebuttal aimed to calm anxious followers and quash the misinformation. Obiano's post included no additional details about his location or activities, focusing solely on debunking the claims.

Sources close to the former governor, including a former information commissioner, corroborated his words. In interviews with outlets like Daily Post and PM News, they reiterated that Obiano is not only alive but actively engaged in personal endeavors. Legit.ng reported a prominent senator affirming, "Former Governor Willie Obiano is not dead!" This collective affirmation from reliable voices helped stem the tide of panic.

Official Statement from Willie Obiano

My beloved Ndi Anambra, friends, and well-wishers, I woke to hear of a rumour making the rounds about my wellbeing. Let me assure you personally: I am alive, hale, hearty, and in excellent health. By the special grace of God, I am doing very well. It is unfortunate that some individuals still find joy in spreading falsehood simply for reasons yet to be established. But we will continue to rise above such mischief.

Obiano also took the opportunity to thank everyone who reached out to him with calls, messages, and prayers, stating that their "love and goodwill mean more than words can express." He ended his message by urging the public to completely disregard the rumor.

Aides and Officials Corroborate the Truth

Adding their voices to counter the misinformation, key figures from Obiano's administration also publicly confirmed that the death rumor was false.

C. Don Adinuba, the former Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, was unequivocal in his dismissal of the report. In a telephone interview, he revealed that he had personally spoken with the former governor and members of his family just minutes before his statement to the press. Adinuba described the rumor as "provocative" and "unfounded," firmly stating that Obiano is "alive, strong and with his family in Houston, United States." He further clarified that Obiano had neither traveled to London nor been hospitalized.

Tony Nezianya, Obiano's personal publicist, also dismissed the report. When contacted for confirmation, he simply stated, "I can't confirm this; I am not aware of such news," and later referred to the rumor as an "executive mischievous rumour"

Context of Recent Rumors and Ongoing Challenges

This is not the first time that the former governor has been the subject of false news. Earlier in 2025, his office had to issue a denial against rumors that he had endorsed a candidate for the Anambra governorship election, with his aides attributing such claims to "faceless third parties or shadowy platforms"

Furthermore, Obiano is currently facing legal challenges. The former governor is under trial for an alleged N4 billion fraud, with a case at the Federal High Court in Abuja related to the matter. The court has rescheduled the continuation of his trial to November 25, 2025.

Public Reaction to the False News

The circulation of the death rumor sparked significant reaction and debate among Nigerians online. While many expressed relief and offered prayers for the former governor's continued well-being, others used the opportunity to comment on his ongoing trial with the EFCC.

The public response highlights a mix of support and skepticism, underscoring how quickly unverified information can capture public attention and the importance of turning to official sources for confirmation.