Ihonvbere Mourns Francis Duru, Says Late Nollywood Icon Was His Student at Uniport

IBN News | October 24, 2026

The Leader of the House of Representatives, Professor Julius Omozuanvbo Ihonvbere, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, describing him as a brilliant, creative and hardworking former student whose contributions to Nigeria’s entertainment industry will not be forgotten.

Ihonvbere, who paid tribute to the late actor on Friday, October 23, said Duru was his student at the University of Port Harcourt, where the deceased studied Theatre Arts before building a successful career in the Nigerian film industry.

The lawmaker, who also holds the traditional title of Iseghede of Owanland, described Duru’s death as a painful loss, recalling the actor’s character and creative abilities during his university days.

“He was my student, a great student at that. He was a very creative, humble and hardworking young man who has left an indelible mark in the annals of the country’s creative industry,” Ihonvbere said.

The House Leader extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, praying for the peaceful repose of Duru’s soul and asking God to grant his loved ones the strength and comfort to bear the loss.

The condolence message was issued by Samson Akhanieme, Chief Press Secretary to the Leader of the House of Representatives.

Duru’s death was announced by his family in a statement published on his official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday. The family said the actor passed away following a brief illness but did not disclose further details about the illness.

“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 family stated.

His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and other prominent Nigerians, with many remembering him for his talent, versatility and enduring contribution to Nollywood.

Born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, Duru later returned to Nigeria for his higher education. He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 1996.

He began his acting career in 1989, making his early screen appearance in Missing Mark, directed by the late filmmaker Ndubuisi Oko. However, his major breakthrough came in 1995 when he portrayed Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the acclaimed film produced by the late Amaka Igwe.

The role helped establish him as one of the recognisable faces of Nollywood during the industry’s formative years. Over the decades, he featured in numerous film productions, demonstrating his range as an actor and earning a lasting place in the memories of Nigerian movie audiences.

Beyond acting, Duru also contributed to the development of the industry through leadership and mentorship. He served as interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010 and received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award in 2007. In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role in an Igbo-language film category at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.

His career, which spanned more than three decades, made him part of a generation of performers who helped shape the growth and popularity of Nigerian cinema.

For Ihonvbere, the loss is also personal, given his connection with Duru as a former student. His tribute highlights the impact the actor made beyond the screen, extending into the lives of those who knew him during his formative years.

As the entertainment industry mourns another of its established performers, Duru’s body of work and contributions to Nigerian film remain part of his enduring legacy.

IBN News extends its condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and admirers of Francis Duru. May his soul rest in peace.