The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has debunked rumours on social media that its director/chief executive, Ali Nuhu, has died.
In a statement signed by the agency’s director of public affairs, Brian Etuk, the corporation said the actor-turned-administrator is alive and performing his duties.
“Ali Nuhu is hale and hearty, discharging the responsibilities of the office of NFC’s Chief Executive,” the statement read.
“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 added: “Appropriate measures have been initiated to arrest this ugly, baleful, and unsatisfactory conduct and trend.”
NFC described the report as “not only malicious and injurious but also false in its entirety.” It, however, thanked members of the public and stakeholders who expressed concern over the development.
The fake news spread on Monday evening with videos and pictures of Nuhu circulated online.
President Bola Tinubu appointed the Kannywood star as managing director/chief executive of the NFC on January 12, 2024.
Ali Nuhu, often called the ‘King of Kannywood’, has appeared in over 500 films across Hausa and English productions. He is one of the most recognisable faces in Nollywood and a cultural ambassador for northern cinema.
The NFC, established in 1979 with headquarters in Jos, regulates and develops the Nigerian film industry. It is currently undergoing reforms to reposition it in line with African Union standards.