The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has strongly denied social media rumours claiming that its Managing Director, Dr. Ali Nuhu, has died.
The agency described the reports as false, malicious, and designed to mislead the public.
The speculation started after a Facebook user, Ifeoma Chigbo, posted a video suggesting that the celebrated actor and filmmaker had passed away.
In her post, she also expressed hope that the report was not true. Shortly after, another account circulated claims that Nuhu had died in a car accident.
The posts quickly spread across social media platforms, sparking panic and confusion among fans of the actor, widely regarded as the “King of Kannywood.”
On Monday evening, the Nigerian Film Corporation released an official statement to set the record straight.
The statement, signed by Brian Etuk, Director of Public Affairs at the NFC, dismissed the claims and assured the public that Dr. Nuhu is alive, well, and actively carrying out his duties.
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“The attention of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has been drawn to the purported passing of Dr. Ali Nuhu, its current Managing Director/Chief Executive, being orchestrated within the social media space; and wishes to officially and unambiguously inform the general public that the reports, including videos laced with the pictures of Dr. Ali Nuhu, are not only malicious and injurious but false in their entirety,” the statement read.
The NFC emphasized that Dr. Nuhu has remained fully engaged in his role since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on February 12, 2024.
The agency also cautioned individuals behind the spread of the false reports. It warned that such actions could carry serious consequences.
“NFC wishes to draw the attention of perpetrators of these uncouth and dastardly acts, including their sponsors, to the dire and unmistakable consequences of their actions, no matter the innocuousness of their intent,” the statement said.
The NFC further noted that steps had already been taken to investigate the matter and curb the spread of harmful misinformation. “Appropriate measures have been initiated to arrest this ugly, baleful, and unsatisfactory conduct and trend,” the statement added.
The rumors triggered widespread concern among Nigerians, especially in the entertainment industry, where Ali Nuhu commands immense respect. Known for his versatility as an actor, director, and producer, Nuhu has built a strong reputation over the years in both Kannywood and Nollywood.
Many of his fans, worried by the viral posts, took to social media to seek clarification. While some expressed disbelief, others prayed for the news to be false.
The NFC, in its statement, acknowledged the genuine concern from the public, noting the outpouring of messages it received from private and public stakeholders.
Ali Nuhu is one of the most influential figures in the Nigerian film industry. Popularly referred to as the “King of Kannywood,” he has acted in over 500 films across Hausa and English cinema, earning him national and international recognition.
His appointment as the Managing Director of the NFC earlier this year was widely celebrated, seen as a recognition of his contributions to Nigerian cinema.
Since assuming office, he has been tasked with revitalizing the industry, promoting Nigerian films globally, and creating opportunities for young filmmakers.
The incident once again highlights the dangers of fake news and misinformation on social media.
In recent years, false death reports about celebrities have become a recurring trend online, often causing unnecessary panic before being debunked.
The NFC’s swift response underscores the importance of fact-checking and relying on official sources before believing or sharing sensitive information.
While the rumor has been laid to rest, the NFC’s firm warning signals that stricter measures may soon be enforced to discourage the spread of harmful content. For fans of Ali Nuhu, the assurance that he remains “alive, well, and fully carrying out his responsibilities” brings relief after hours of confusion.
As the Nigerian film industry continues to grow, the NFC says it remains focused on its mandate of building a stronger, more sustainable movie sector. And at the heart of this mission is Dr. Ali Nuhu, who, despite the rumours, remains very much present and dedicated to his role.
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