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The National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, has mourned veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, describing his death as an “immeasurable loss” to the creative sector.
The family of the actor announced his passing in a statement posted on his verified Instagram account, saying he died after a brief illness.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, the AGN helmsman described Duru as “an iconic actor, a revered veteran and an exceptional practitioner.”
He said, “Beyond his remarkable performances, he was a mentor and inspiration to generations of practitioners. He nurtured emerging talents, leaving behind not only a remarkable body of work, but also a legacy of excellence, discipline and professionalism.”
Yakubu said Duru’s contribution to the growth and development of the Nigerian movie industry would remain a lasting reference point for practitioners.
“Indeed, Francis has written his name on the sands of time. His artistic legacy transcends generations,” he said.
The AGN president expressed condolences to Duru’s family, praying that God would grant them the strength to bear the loss.
“We mourn him, and we pray that God will grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Yakubu said.
The report of Duru’s death has continued to generate frenzy on social media platforms, with fans across Nigeria and beyond pouring in condolence messages and tributes.
@Happy wrote, “Rest in peace, Francis Duru. This is a real reminder that none of us are promised tomorrow. Thank you for the memories on screen.”
@Jay commented, “I always saw him at Family Worship Church here in Abuja; a very jovial and down-to-earth guy. God rest his soul.”
@BhurteeFFS! Wrote, “God rest his soul. He made our childhood, mehn.”
@Enebeli commented, “Terribly saddened to hear of his demise. I remember him most as Ahanna in Rattle Snake; an enormous talent; Rest in peace!”
@ReallyChiggy wrote, “An era is ending. Only a few are remaining. The generation that gave Nollywood a face is going really fast, I pray for Duru’s soul to rest in peace.”
@Mafia Boss said, “Life expectancy is now 55 years? Then we need to develop this country and improve healthcare for people to live longer.”
@Madam Gist wrote, “We should endeavour to monitor our health. May the Lord comfort his family!”
@Obi said, “And all this struggle for a day that can be taken away from us anytime.”
NAN reports that Duru, born on July 27, 1969, hailed from Imo state.
He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers state.
Duru debuted in the Nigerian movie industry in 1989 with a movie titled Missing Mark, and came to limelight after featuring in the 1995 acclaimed action-comedy, Rattlesnake, playing the character ‘Ahanna’
He featured in many Nollywood films and won several awards, including the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards for his role in Mboputa.
Besides acting, Duru also worked extensively with local and international NGOs in order to ensure that African children have a better education and a higher standard of living.
In 2007, he received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award for his positive influence on the youth.
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