From Sola Ojo, Abuja
Chairman, NIPCO PLC., Chief Dr. Bestman Anekwe popularly known as Ochiagha Jesus is not dead as rumoured by some mushroom media spaces, Secretary, ALGON Board of Trustee and National Ex-officio member Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) representing the Eastern Zone, Hon. Chukwudi Ezinwa, has clarified.
Ezinwa in a clarification statement titled “Disclaimer and Warning Against Fake News on the Demise of Chief Dr. Bestman Enekwe (Ochiagha Jesus)”, said he was disappointed by the promoters of such unfounded story against their fellow man.
He noted that though Ochiagha Jesus lost his wife to the cold hands of death and wake-keep conducted on Monday, August 19, 2024, that shouldn’t translate into malicious publication against the man who is still mourning his loss.
“The attention of the public has been drawn to a false and malicious rumor circulating on social media platforms, particularly Adazi ENU Facebook and Phoenix, about the sudden demise of Chief Dr. Bestman Anekwe (Ochiagha Jesus), Chairman, NIPCO PLC.
“I hereby categorically describe as false, malicious, baseless, and mischievous rumor alleging the demise of Chief Dr. Bestman Anekwe (Ochiagha Jesus), Chairman, NIPCO PLC.
“Recall that a similar false rumour was spread about the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the Owelle of Onitsha. I’m sounding a note of warning to those peddling this falsehood to desist forthwith.
“It is unfortunate that those who should be accurate in their reportage, have chosen to peddle fake news. You have to always verify your news to avoid credibility issues and potential harm to individuals and families.
“I, therefore urge the public to disregard this unfounded rumour and to verify information through credible sources before sharing.
“Let us respect the privacy and dignity of Chief Dr. Bestman Anekwe and his family,” he appealed.