Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has refuted reports alleging the death of former Governor of the state, Chief Willie Obiano. He recently revealed that the rumours claiming that Obiano died in a London hospital are malicious and completely false.
Speaking via a press statement by his Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, Soludo said that he has personally spoken with Obiano and can confirm that he is alive and in good health.
According to him, the false reports were both malicious and wicked, and he can only appeal to the media to verify all information via the right channels before publishing.
Soludo stated that the spread of unverified death rumours is not irresponsible and completely goes against the ethics of journalism.
“I view with grave concern the reckless circulation of such malicious rumours. It is both wicked and completely irresponsible.
I strongly urge media practitioners, especially online publishers, to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying any information through official channels before rushing to publish.
The spread of unverified death rumours is not only wicked and irresponsible but also erodes public trust,” he said.
Soludo further urged members of the public to ignore the trending report, assuring them that Obiano is still hale and hearty.
He concluded by wishing the former governor continued strength, peace and a fulfilling life.
