In one area of social media, there were rumors that the General had died at the age of 89.

The General, however, denied the allegations and said that he is still alive and in excellent health when reached by a Vanguard journalist over the phone.

Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, a Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate for governor of Delta State in the 2023 election who is rumored to have close relations to the war hero, also responded to the rumors and called them the product of troublemakers.

Gbagi, a former minister of state for education, said late on Monday through Orusi Kenneth, his chief press secretary.

Gbagi, disclosed that General Gowon, is alive, hale and hearty and currently in London.

Gbagi was quoted as saying, “General Gowon, is still much around with us, hale and hearty. He is not in a hurry to go anywhere.”

He further said; “I, Gbagi, just spoke with him. I hereby refute the rumour of the death of my friend, General Gowon.

“He has communicated to Nigerians that he is still much around, hale and hearty. Gowon is alive.”