The family of late Nollywood actor Francis Duru has announced arrangements for his funeral, with the final burial and interment scheduled to take place in his hometown of Eziama, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, on December 11, 2026.

The announcement was made on Monday, November 2, through a statement published on the actor’s official Instagram page. It was jointly signed by his sister, Anthonia Chenyi, and his first son, Ebuka Duru, on behalf of the family.

According to the statement, the first Service of Songs will take place on Wednesday, November 25, at Family Worship Centre, Idris Gidado Street, Wuye, Abuja. The programme is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m.

The family also announced a second Service of Songs for Thursday, December 10, at the late actor’s family compound in Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano, Imo State. His funeral and interment will follow on Friday, December 11, at the same location.

The statement provided the following details:

“Service of songs in Abuja on Wednesday, 25th November 2026 by 5:00 PM at Family Worship Center, Idris Gidado Street, Wuye.

“Service of songs in Imo State on Thursday, 10th December 2026 at the late Pa Theophilus Ogide Duru’s Family Compound, Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano. Followed by funeral and interment on Friday, 11th December 2026 at Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano.”

Family Appreciates Support Following Actor’s Death

The family expressed gratitude to relatives, friends, colleagues, fans and other well-wishers who have offered prayers, condolences and support since the actor’s death.

It described the outpouring of sympathy as a source of strength during a difficult period and invited members of the public to participate in the funeral ceremonies.

The family also described Duru as a cherished husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, adding that his memory and contributions would remain significant to those who knew him.

The announcement comes a day after the family warned the public against circulating unauthorised funeral flyers containing inaccurate information about the actor’s background and burial arrangements. It had urged fans and members of the entertainment industry to rely on announcements from its official social media channels.

Francis Duru’s Career and Contribution to Nollywood

Francis Duru was one of the familiar faces in Nigeria’s film industry, with an acting career spanning more than three decades.

Born in Cameroon to Nigerian parents from Imo State, he began his acting career in 1989 with the film Missing Mark. His breakthrough came in 1995 when he played Ahanna in Amaka Igwe’s popular Nollywood production Rattlesnake.

The performance helped establish his reputation as a versatile actor and opened the way for appearances in numerous Nigerian films.

His film credits include Blood Money, Stigma, Home in Exile, Nnenda, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons and Mboputa.

Beyond acting, Duru contributed to the administration of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, serving as its interim president in 2010. He also received recognition for his performance in Mboputa, winning the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) category at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards.

His death was announced by his family on October 23, 2026, in a statement shared through his verified Instagram account. The family said he had passed away following a brief illness but did not disclose the specific medical condition.

As preparations begin for his final rites, the December ceremonies will provide an opportunity for family members, colleagues, friends and admirers to pay their last respects to the veteran actor and celebrate his contribution to Nigerian cinema.