The Nigerian film industry is mourning two losses in quick succession after actor and production figure Steven Echendu reportedly died just hours after the confirmed passing of veteran actor Francis Duru.
News of Echendu’s death emerged on Friday, October 23, 2026, through a Facebook post by colleague Wisdom Nwankwo. In the tribute, Nwankwo described learning of two friends’ deaths within a short span and urged people to check on those who go quiet online.
“I don’t take chills in doing this, but I am really touched and pained. Please, sometimes, if you don’t see people on your timeline for a month or even less, and they are regular in your list, please check on them,” he wrote.
He continued:
“It’s quite a sad note on my side to learn of the passing of two of my friends here and in Nollywood; we were very active in making Nollywood what it is today. Austinfair Nwaulu was one of the media gurus who used to participate in all our activities in Nollywood. Very sad to hear he passed on Saturday and was laid on Tuesday. Oh, Steven Real Stephen Echendu, it’s so painful to also learn of your passing yesterday; you were also one of the gladiators then in Nollywood Ojs production main man. Just a span of 5 days, oh Lord, let your will always prevail.”
Nwankwo closed by reminding readers that tomorrow is not promised and that earthly work is “just a temporary assignment.” The cause of Echendu’s death was not disclosed in the post. He was a veteran actor, producer, and director who contributed to early Nollywood through OJs Production and later credits including Fury (2019), Infant at Heart (2024), and Knockout Blessing (2018).
Francis Duru’s death was announced by his family earlier the same day.
Read Francis Duru Dies at 57 After Brief Illness
The back-to-back losses, coming days after media personality Austinfair Nwaulu also died, have drawn tributes and expressions of shock from fans and industry colleagues. Nwankwo’s post specifically framed Echendu as one of the “gladiators” who helped build the industry in its formative years.