Today’s Headlines:Nollywood Mourns Late Actor Francis Duru;Pope Leo to Miss Assisi Gathering–Vatican

Nollywood actors and filmmakers have mourned veteran actor Francis Duru, who died at the age of 57 following a brief illness. Colleagues paid tribute to his talent, contributions to Nigerian cinema and lasting influence, expressing condolences to his family and the wider film industry.

Desmond Elliot, Actors Guild of Nigeria President Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, and several filmmakers and actresses described his death as a significant loss to Nollywood. The guild’s National Secretary, Ify Okeke, announced the death on social media and appealed for prayers for his family, while other colleagues said his legacy would continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.

Pope Leo XIV will miss a peace gathering in Assisi, Italy, scheduled for 27 October 2026, following medical advice as he recovers from surgery to remove a cancerous nodule from his right lung. Although doctors confirmed that his post-operative recovery was progressing well and no further treatment was required, they advised against the helicopter trip so soon after surgery. The Vatican said the Pope would send a message to the gathering instead.

The 71-year-old pontiff was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital five days after the operation and plans to resume his duties gradually. The Assisi event, marking the 40th anniversary of the World Day of Prayer for Peace, will bring together 384 representatives of religions, cultures and institutions from 53 countries. Doctors have also indicated that there is no medical reason to cancel his planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from 6 to 17 November.

Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over reports that security operatives are guarding his campaign billboards in Kaduna State ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign launch. Atiku questioned the government’s priorities, arguing that while campaign posters receive protection, many Nigerians remain vulnerable to attacks by bandits and terrorists.

Tinubu is expected to attend the campaign rally on Saturday, 24 October 2026, alongside other senior government officials. The Kaduna State Police Command announced restrictions on heavy-duty vehicles in the metropolis from midnight until 8 pm to ease traffic and ensure security. Security agencies have deployed tactical teams, explosive ordnance disposal units and crowd-control personnel, while the police warned political parties and supporters against violence, intimidation and possession of dangerous weapons.

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, are expected to lead a solidarity march in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, 24 October 2026. Organisers of the event, initially scheduled for 1 October, said it was postponed due to security concerns and logistical challenges. The organisers are targeting two million participants to demonstrate support for the duo ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The march, organised by the NDC, Obidient and Kwankwasiyya movements, will begin at the Water Fountain along Nwaniba Road at 9 am. The organisers described it as a peaceful gathering to promote credible elections, prevent electoral manipulation and highlight demands for better healthcare, education, roads and living conditions. They said arrangements had been made for transportation, refreshments, medical assistance and internal security, while urging residents, young people and opposition supporters to participate peacefully.

Live_Updates feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com