Veteran Nollywood Actor Francis Duru to Be Buried December 11

The family of veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has announced funeral arrangements for the late screen star, with his burial scheduled for December 11, 2026, in Imo State.

The arrangements, contained in a statement shared on the actor’s official Instagram page on Monday, November 2, outline a series of activities to celebrate his life and honour his legacy.

According to the announcement, a Service of Songs and Tributes will be held on Wednesday, November 25, at 5 p.m. at Family Worship Centre, Idris Gidado Street, Wuye, Abuja.

A second Service of Songs is scheduled for Thursday, December 10, at the family compound of his late father, Pa Theophilus Ogide Duru, in Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano, Imo State.

The funeral and interment will take place on Friday, December 11, at the same location.

The announcement was signed by his son, Ebuka Duru, and sister, Anthonia Chenyi, on behalf of the family. They described the late actor as a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle and friend.

The family also expressed appreciation to friends, colleagues, fans and well-wishers for their prayers, messages, calls and support since his passing, noting that the gestures had provided strength during the difficult period.

Duru died in October 2026 at the age of 57 following a brief illness. His death was announced by the family on October 23, sparking an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and admirers across the entertainment industry.

Born Francis Ogide Duru, the actor began his career in 1989 and rose to prominence in 1995 after portraying Ahanna in Amaka Igwe’s classic film Rattlesnake, which became one of the defining productions of early Nollywood.

Over the years, he featured in several notable productions, including Blood Money, Nnenda, Home in Exile, Stigma and Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons.

Beyond his contributions to film, Duru also served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010. In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.

As preparations for his final rites begin, family members, colleagues and fans are expected to gather in Abuja and Imo State to celebrate the life and career of an actor whose contributions helped shape the Nigerian film industry.

The family has also disclosed that various branches and associations across the country are organising additional services of songs and tributes in his honour.

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