The speculation began after a Facebook user, Ifeoma Chigbo, circulated a video suggesting that the veteran actor and filmmaker had passed away, though the post also hinted at uncertainty about the claim. Matters escalated when another version of the rumour alleged that Nuhu had died in a fatal car accident.
In a statement released on Monday, the NFC described the reports as “false and malicious,” stressing that Nuhu is alive and actively carrying out his duties as the Corporation’s Managing Director/Chief Executive.
“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 Corporation further reaffirmed that Dr. Nuhu, who was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on February 12, 2024, remains in office and continues to discharge his responsibilities without interruption.
Beyond clarifying the misinformation, the NFC warned that steps are being taken to identify and hold accountable those behind the false claims.
“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.
It also assured stakeholders that appropriate measures have been initiated to curb the spread of such damaging rumours in the future.
While acknowledging the concern expressed by the public and the film industry community, the Corporation urged Nigerians to rely on official communications rather than social media speculation.
Dr. Ali Nuhu, often hailed as the “King of Kannywood,” is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actors and filmmakers. Since assuming leadership of the NFC earlier this year, he has been at the forefront of efforts to reposition Nollywood and the northern film industry for greater global visibility.