Friends Were Afraid To Call Me” — Francis Duru Opens Up On Battling Illness

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has dismissed widespread claims circulating on social media suggesting that he is battling a serious illness, describing the reports as false and misleading.

According to Ireporter Online, the rumours gained traction after a video surfaced online showing the actor appearing weak, which triggered concern among fans, colleagues, and well-wishers across various social media platforms. The clip quickly went viral, sparking speculation about his health condition.

However, in a video shared on his Instagram page on Friday, the 56-year-old actor debunked the claims, insisting that he has never suffered the kind of illness portrayed in the viral footage and affirming that he remains in good health. He alleged that the video was deliberately crafted to spread misinformation and attract online attention, criticizing what he described as the growing trend of sensational and harmful content creation for traffic.

Duru expressed concern over the increasing misuse of social media and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to fabricate narratives about public figures, warning that such practices could have damaging real-life consequences. He further noted that individuals behind such content often disregard the emotional impact on those involved, adding that his supporters had been unnecessarily worried and embarrassed by the false reports.

The actor, who married Adokiye in 2003, also reflected on personal loss, recalling the passing of his son, Ifeanyi, in August 2024, a tragedy that previously drew public sympathy.