Nollywood actor, Francis Duru, has died at the age of 57, barely four months after publicly dismissing reports that he was battling a life-threatening illness.
The actor’s family confirmed his death in a statement posted on his verified Instagram page in the early hours of Friday, October 23, revealing that he passed away following a brief illness.
“We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness. We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen,” the statement read.
The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, also confirmed the development in a social media post.
“Another great thespian is gone. Rest in peace, Francis Duru,” Yakubu wrote.
Similarly, the founder of Best of Nollywood (BON), Seun Oloketuyi, announced the actor’s passing, saying further details would follow.
Duru’s death comes four months after he addressed widespread speculation about his health.
In June, a video showing the actor appearing frail circulated on social media, triggering concerns among fans and colleagues that he was critically ill.
However, Duru dismissed the reports in a video posted on Instagram, accusing those circulating the footage of deliberately spreading false information.
“I have never been that sick and will never be that sick. And by God’s grace, we keep being stronger and stronger,” he said at the time.
The actor described those behind the rumours as merchants of darkness who exploited people’s misfortunes to generate online traffic.