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Veteran Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has dismissed renewed rumours of his death, insisting that he is “alive and kicking” despite recurring false reports circulating online.
The 78-year-old film icon reacted after claims surfaced on social media alleging that he had been rushed to hospital and passed away. Some of the reports also falsely suggested that his son, Uche Edochie, had confirmed the news.
The rumours quickly spread across various platforms, sparking concern among fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Speaking during a telephone conversation, the respected actor firmly denied the claims and reassured the public of his wellbeing.
“I’m alive and will die when my maker calls me home,” he said.
Pete Edochie noted that this was not the first time he had been declared dead by rumour mongers. According to him, similar false reports have surfaced repeatedly over the years, forcing him to constantly address and debunk the claims.
“I have been killed about seven times,” he said humorously. “There was a time they said I travelled abroad and died there. At other times, they said that the plane I boarded from Enugu to Ethiopia suddenly crashed and I didn’t survive.”
He recalled another disturbing incident when his wife received an early morning call from someone claiming he had died.
“There was also a day, my wife woke up to prepare for church service, when her telephone rang and the caller said he heard that I passed away that morning. Last year, somebody from Ghana alleged that Pete Edochie was already in the grave,” he added.
Despite the repeated hoaxes, the actor maintained a calm and philosophical outlook. He referenced a lesson he learned from Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, whom he once interviewed.
“However, there was something late Nnamdi Azikwe taught me when I interviewed him. He said that anybody who’s wishing you death will die before you. All those people that wished Zik death died before him. That was what I learnt from Zik,” Pete said.
Looking ahead, the celebrated thespian revealed that he will turn 79 on March 7 and expressed confidence about his longevity, citing his family history.
“On the 7th of March, I will be 79. My father died at 96, so we have longevity in my family,” he stated.
Pete Edochie remains one of Nollywood’s most revered figures. Known for his commanding voice, dignified presence and memorable portrayal of the character Ebubedike, he has enjoyed a career spanning decades.
His contribution to the Nigerian film industry has earned him numerous accolades, including the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) national honour and the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) Industry Merit Award.
As false death rumours continue to plague public figures, Pete Edochie’s response serves as yet another reminder of the dangers of misinformation in the digital age. For now, the legendary actor has made it clear that reports of his death are greatly exaggerated.
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