Nollywood veteran Pete Edochie has once again dismissed rumors of his death, calling out the repeated hoaxes that have circulated about him over the years.
The 78-year-old actor, widely known as Ebubedike, revealed that claims of his passing have been made on multiple occasions, including false reports of dying abroad or in accidents. “I have been killed about seven times,” Edochie told journalists, emphasizing that he remains very much alive.
Edochie, who will turn 79 on March 7, credits his longevity and good health to his family’s history of long life. “My father lived to 96, so longevity runs in my family,” he said.
The actor has had a celebrated career in Nollywood, earning honors such as the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and the AMVCA Industry Merit Award. Despite the false claims, he continues to be active and respected in the industry.
Recalling past hoaxes, Edochie said, “There was a time they said I travelled abroad and died there. At other times, they claimed the plane I boarded from Enugu to Ethiopia crashed. Last year, someone even from Ghana alleged I was already in the grave.”
He reflected on a lesson from Nigeria’s first President, Nnamdi Azikwe, whom he once interviewed: “Anybody who wishes you death will die before you. All those who wished Zik death died before him. That was what I learnt from Zik.”
Edochie’s firm denial comes amid a pattern of repeated misinformation about his death, dating back to 2012. Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to reaffirm their support and celebrate his enduring presence in Nollywood.
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