The family of veteran Nollywood actor Chief Francis Duru has released the official programme for his funeral rites, with services scheduled in Abuja and his hometown in Imo State.
Duru, a familiar face in Nigerian cinema for decades, passed away on October 22, 2026, at the age of 59 after a period of illness. His family announced the burial arrangements in a statement shared on his official Instagram page on Monday, November 2, 2026. The statement was jointly signed by his sister, Anthonia Chenyi, and his first son, Ebuka Duru.
According to the family, the funeral programme is as follows:
- Service of Songs (Abuja): Wednesday, November 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Venue: Family Worship Centre, Idris Gidado Street, Wuye, Abuja. - Service of Songs (Imo State): Thursday, December 10, 2026
Venue: Late Pa Theophilus Ogide Duru’s Family Compound, Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano, Imo State. - Funeral Service and Interment: Friday, December 11, 2026
Venue: Same family compound in Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano, Imo State.
The family described Duru as a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, noting that “a remarkable life, a beautiful legacy, a star that will never stop shining” continues through the memories of those who knew him. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, messages and support received since his passing and invited colleagues, friends, industry stakeholders and members of the public to join them in celebrating his life.
Additional tribute events may be organised by professional bodies such as the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), with coordination handled through designated representatives.
The announcement follows an earlier statement from the family cautioning the public against unauthorised burial flyers and unverified information circulating online. Official updates, they emphasised, will be shared exclusively through the late actor’s verified Instagram page.
Francis Duru was widely recognised for his contributions to Nollywood, including memorable performances in films dating back to the 1990s. His death elicited widespread tributes from colleagues and fans across the entertainment industry.
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