Former Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda, has debunked reports circulating on social media that he had died, revealing that he recently underwent back surgery.

Yuguda, who spoke on Saturday, said the false report caused panic among his supporters, particularly in Bauchi State, as many people contacted him and his associates to confirm his condition.

“I am alive. I assure you that I am in good health. I was ill recently, but God has restored my health,” he said.

The former governor explained that he had been staying mostly indoors following the surgery on medical advice and had been advised to get adequate rest during his recovery.

According to Yuguda, the condition affected his back and required surgery, noting that complications involving the vertebrae could become serious, particularly with age.

He also said he had no knowledge of anyone who might have deliberately spread the death rumour, insisting that he had no enemies or ill feelings towards anyone.

“I have no enemies. I do not harbour ill feelings towards anybody and I have no time for animosity. I only pray that God grants me a faithful end and a peaceful departure,” he said.

Yuguda said the reaction to the rumour showed the affection many Nigerians, particularly people from Bauchi, had for him.

He disclosed that the calls became so numerous that he temporarily switched off his phone, adding that more than 10,000 people from Bauchi alone contacted him to confirm that he was alive.

The former governor thanked Muslims and Christians across the country for their prayers and concern, saying some people in Bauchi reportedly broke down in tears before hearing directly from him that he was alive.

“I thank God for them and pray that He rewards them with goodness,” Yuguda said.