Nigerian actor Francis Duru has debunked viral reports alleging that he is battling a life-threatening illness.
The rumours gained widespread attention after a video showing the actor appearing weak and frail circulated on social media, raising concern among fans and colleagues.
Reacting in an Instagram video on Friday, the 56-year-old actor dismissed the claims, describing the footage as “fabricated and malicious”.
“I am making this video with regard to very wicked videos circulating around about me being sick to the level that you could see in that video. Well, 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.
The veteran actor criticised those behind the video, calling them “merchants of darkness” who spread harmful content for online attention.
He also raised concerns about the increasing misuse of manipulated content, possibly powered by AI, to deceive the public and attract engagement at the expense of people’s reputation and peace of mind.
“That video is a handiwork of merchants of darkness, of wickedness, people who sit and concoct negativity for people. You just don’t want to see people rise,” he said.
“You just don’t believe in people’s success all in the course of driving traffic. And if this is what social media is all about or AI. Then we are in big trouble indeed.”
Duru revealed that the false reports caused panic among friends and associates, many of whom reached out in fear and confusion. He urged the public to ignore the rumours and reassured them that he is in good health.
“But this is just to let you guys know that this is me talking to you. Anything beyond this is their business. But I believe God will reach out to the guys who are doing this very soon,” he added.
“Suffer not the witch to live. Please, my friends who have been embarrassed, scared, even to call me and those who just call for calling sake, but just to know whether it is true.
“Well, this is me. I said, let me just put this little video to let you know that anything beyond this is something from somewhere.”
Francis Duru married Adokiye in 2003 and lost his son, Ifeanyi, in August 2024.