Senator Rochas Okorocha, former Governor of Imo State, has responded to recent rumors claiming he had passed away, dismissing the reports as malicious and born out of jealousy.
The rumors, which circulated on November 6, 2024, falsely claimed that Okorocha had died in a London hospital from a fabricated illness described as “acute gorilla.”
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sam Onwuemeodo, Okorocha clarified that he was alive and in good health.
“He had been in Owerri attending the burial of the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and had no health issues.”
The statement emphasized that Okorocha had been active, attending public events and services, including one in Abuja in honor of notable Igbos, such as Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.
The statement expressed disappointment at the spread of the rumors and attributed the false reports to envy over the warm reception Okorocha had received during the burial ceremony.
Okorocha’s supporters had given him significant applause and ovation during the event, which the former governor believes triggered the unfounded rumors.
“To all well-meaning Nigerians, the news of Rochas Okorocha’s death is false. He is alive, healthy, and continues to engage in his normal activities.”
The statement went on to criticize the individuals behind the rumors, describing them as “spiritually dead” and suggesting that they were upset over Okorocha’s recognition at the burial.
Okorocha, however, refrained from responding with anger, instead offering prayers for the individuals responsible.
“We do not curse those whom God has blessed. We pray for their spiritual healing and hope for their repentance and a return to normalcy.”
Okorocha’s spokesperson urged the public to disregard the malicious rumors and focus on the former governor’s ongoing contributions to public life.
