“It’s handiwork of merchants of darkness” — Veteran actor Francis Duru debunks viral video showing him critically ill

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has released a video statement strongly refuting a viral video that falsely claimed he is critically ill.

Speaking directly to his audience to prove his well-being, Duru dismissed the footage as an entirely fabricated health scare designed by malicious individuals to drive social media traffic.

“I am making this video with regards to very wicked videos circulating around about me being sick to the level that you could see in that video,” Duru stated.

“Well, I have never been that sick and will never be that sick.”

Actor Condemns Unethical Digital Traffic Drivers

Duru expressed deep frustration with the content creators behind the hoax, describing them as “merchants of darkness” who weaponize negativity for online engagement.

He raised serious concerns about the current state of digital media and the manipulation of modern tools.

“That video is a handiwork of merchants of darkness, of wickedness, people who sit and concoct negativity for people,” Duru said.

“You just don’t believe in people’s success all in the course of driving traffic. And this is what social media is all about or AI. Then we’re in big trouble indeed.”

Direct Reassurance Offered to Alarmed Public and Colleagues

The actor confirmed that he is in excellent health, addressing the sudden panic the video caused among his colleagues, friends, and extensive fanbase who had been frantically calling to verify the news.

“By God’s grace, we’ll keep being stronger and stronger,” Duru reassured. “Please, friends who have been embarrassed, scared, even to call me and those who just call… just to know whether it is true. Well, this is me. Anything beyond this is something from somewhere.”

Expression of Gratitude to Fans Amid Growing Industry Trend

Concluding his statement, Duru thanked his supporters for the overwhelming wave of prayers, love, and concern that followed the false report, choosing to counter the malice of the hoax with a message of appreciation.

“Thank you all for always being there for me with your prayers and your wishes at all,” Duru concluded.

“Thank you so much for your concerns. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for your love. I love you all. God bless you.”

Watch the video here…

“I’m making this video regarding the video circulating online of me being critically ill.” — Veteran actor Francis Duru has debunked rumours of him being terminally ill. pic.twitter.com/wLncT4CfyU

— YabaLeftOnline (@yabaleftonline) June 19, 2026