Anambra Assembly dismisses false Anambra burial law claims, saying no new legislation on funeral rites was passed

The Anambra State House of Assembly has denied reports circulating on social media alleging that the state government introduced a new law banning lavish burial ceremonies and the presentation of expensive condolence gifts.

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In a statement issued on Monday, the Special Adviser to the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Franklin Osankwa, described the reports as false, misleading and a gross misrepresentation of facts.

The controversy followed widespread claims online that the state had outlawed the presentation of cows, goats and other costly items during condolence visits as part of a newly introduced funeral regulation.

However, Osankwa clarified that no such legislation was introduced, debated or passed by the current eighth Assembly led by Speaker, Somtochukwu Udeze.

According to the statement, the burial regulatory framework being referenced in viral reports was enacted in 2019, years before the inauguration of the present Assembly.

“The eighth Anambra State House of Assembly did not pass any new burial law. No such bill was introduced, debated or passed by the current Assembly,” the statement said.

Osankwa added that no amendment had been made by the present lawmakers regarding the areas being sensationally reported by some media platforms.

He criticised what he described as irresponsible and unethical reporting, accusing some platforms of promoting controversy and public outrage through misleading headlines designed to attract online traffic.

“At a time when distorted headlines are becoming a serious threat to public trust and social stability, media organisations must understand that journalism is a sacred responsibility, not a tool for clickbait sensationalism,” the statement added.

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to transparent and people-oriented legislation, assuring residents that citizens would continue to be properly informed about any legitimate bills before the House.

The statement also urged Ndi Anambra and the wider public to disregard the viral claims and rely only on verified information released through official government channels.

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The clarification has helped calm growing public debate surrounding the alleged restrictions, which had triggered strong reactions across social media platforms over the weekend.