Nollywood loses another actor amid mourning for Francis Duru

Nollywood actor, producer and director Steven Echendu has died, deepening mourning in Nigeria’s film industry following the announcement of veteran actor Francis Duru’s death.

According to PM News, Echendu’s death became public on Friday after his colleague, Wisdom Nwankwo, shared an emotional tribute on Facebook.

“Oh Steven Real Stephen Echendu, it’s so painful to also learn of your passing yesterday,” Nwankwo wrote.

He described Echendu as “one of the gladiators” of Nollywood’s early years, recalling his contributions through OJs Production.

Nwankwo also mourned media professional Austinfair Nwaulu, who reportedly died days earlier.

“Just a space of five days, oh Lord let your will always prevail,” he lamented.

Echendu appeared in films including Fury (2019), Knockout Blessing (2018) and Infant at Heart (2024).

His age and cause of death remain undisclosed.

The announcement followed confirmation of Francis Duru’s death on Friday, prompting tributes from colleagues and fans across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.