Punch reported the family statement: “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.” The Actors Guild of Nigeria national president, Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, had earlier shared a tribute on Instagram calling him a great thespian.
Duru rose to fame as Ahanna in the 1990s film Rattlesnake. Born on 27 July 1969 in Cameroon to parents from Imo State, he studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt. He previously dismissed circulating health videos in June 2026 as fabricated.
Fans and colleagues have begun posting tributes. Come back for official funeral arrangements and further family statements.