Veteran Nollywood actor Chiwetalu Agu has dismissed widespread rumours of his death, assuring fans that he remains alive, healthy, and focused on his family and career.
The 69-year-old film star, known for his iconic comic roles and witty catchphrases in Nigerian movies, took to Instagram on Friday to set the record straight.
In a video posted on his verified account, Chiwetalu Agu, urged his supporters to ignore the false news and instead report the social media blogger responsible for spreading the misleading information.
His caption read:
“Fans and family, please disregard any rumors about my death, and kindly report the page of the blogger who started spreading them. I am very much alive by God’s grace.”
The accompanying video showed the actor dressed in his usual colourful attire as he reaffirmed his life and vitality.
“Chief Chiwetalu Agu, Okenmiri n’ezoru Oha 1 of Etiti Amokwe, Enugu State is not going to die anytime soon,” he declared with confidence.
He went further, adding:
“Instead I will be the one to bury my enemies. Na who dig pit go fall inside. Na who dig grave go fall inside.
I am yet to carry my grandchildren and I must carry them in good health when my children are ready.”
The clarification came after an obscure blogger posted that the actor had passed away, sparking shock and confusion among Nollywood fans across Nigeria and beyond.
Within hours, the false claim had spread widely, with condolence messages appearing on several social media platforms before Chiwetalu Agu, himself intervened.
He condemned the circulation of such damaging content and expressed disappointment that people in 2025 still believed unverified claims without checking credible sources.
“What baffles me is that in this 21st century, 2025, a lot of people are still gullible to believe such things without confirming whether it is true or not.
Fans and families, disregard any rumours or rebuke anyone spreading such diabolical news about me,” he said.
Although Chiwetalu Agu, stated he would not sue the individual behind the false report because the person is “still struggling with likes,” he warned that if one of the country’s major online platforms had carried the fake story, he would have sought legal redress.
“If it were any of the big bloggers who carried the false information, I would have sued them for defamation, economic and business damage,” he revealed.
Chiwetalu Agu, is one of Nigeria’s most recognizable Nollywood veterans. With a career spanning over four decades, he has starred in numerous home videos, bringing humour, satire, and cultural depth to his performances.
Known for his unique proverbs and mannerisms, Chiwetalu Agu, has carved a niche as a household name across Africa.
He began his acting career in the 1980s, appearing in stage plays and television dramas before Nollywood rose to prominence.
Over the years, he has worked with industry pioneers and remains a respected figure among his peers and fans alike.
His role in films such as Nkwocha, Taboo, and Traditional Marriage established him as a comic genius, while his versatility in interpreting both villainous and humorous characters earned him critical acclaim.
This is not the first time a Nollywood veteran has been a victim of false death rumours.
Over the years, several prominent actors including Olu Jacobs, Pete Edochie, and Kanayo O. Kanayo have also faced similar hoaxes, leading to unnecessary panic among their admirers.
Media analysts have repeatedly raised concerns about the growing trend of misinformation on social media, warning that such rumours not only hurt the reputation of public figures but also cause distress to families and fans.
Experts argue that fake news undermines trust in legitimate journalism, making it more difficult for the public to distinguish truth from lies.
The Nigerian entertainment industry, which thrives on celebrity culture, has become especially vulnerable to such damaging content.
Following Chiwetalu Agu’s video, many of his fans flooded his Instagram page with messages of relief and gratitude.
Some described the false report as “heartless,” while others prayed for his continued health and long life.
One follower commented:
“Daddy, you will live long in good health. No weapon fashioned against you shall prosper.”
Another added:
“We thank God for your life. May you continue to give us joy with your acting.”
The veteran actor hinted at his desire to live long enough to see and carry his grandchildren, stressing that he remains strong and healthy.
His words also reflect a deeper cultural and personal aspiration, as family lineage and continuity remain central to many Nigerian traditions.
Meanwhile, Chiwetalu Agu, continues to make appearances in Nollywood productions and has expressed interest in mentoring younger actors.
His influence, both on screen and off, remains significant in shaping the direction of the industry.
The incident has once again renewed calls for responsible journalism and stricter regulations on social media platforms.
Entertainment stakeholders argue that stronger accountability measures are needed to deter the reckless spread of false information that threatens the well-being of public figures.
For Chiwetalu Agu, however, the ordeal has become an opportunity to reaffirm his faith and resilience.
His message was not only about dispelling the rumours but also about reminding his fans that he remains committed to life, family, and his God-given craft.
“I am not going anywhere anytime soon,” he reiterated with a smile in the video.