Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru passes on

Veteran Nigerian actor Francis Duru has died at the age of 57 after a brief illness, his family has confirmed.

The family announced his death in a statement shared on the actor’s official Instagram account in the early hours of Friday, thanking fans and well-wishers for their prayers, love and support.

“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.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official Francis Duru (@francis.duru)

Duru is survived by his wife, Adokiye, and their children.

The actor was a familiar face in Nollywood, gaining widespread recognition for portraying Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the 1995 film produced by the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.

His death comes months after he publicly denied reports that he was suffering from a life-threatening illness.

In June, he addressed footage circulating online about his health, dismissing it as false and criticising those spreading the claims in a video posted on Instag