Pete Edochie is Alive and Healthy: Family Debunks Viral Death Rumours

 

​The Nigerian entertainment landscape was thrown into a state of panic on February 11, 2026, following malicious viral reports claiming that Nollywood legend Chief Pete Edochie had passed away. However, in a swift and firm response, the Edochie family has come forward to silence the "death merchants," confirming that the iconic actor is not only alive but also in excellent health. This incident highlights the growing menace of celebrity death hoaxes on social media and the resilience of one of Africa’s most respected cinematic figures.

​The Origin of the Rumours

​The false news began circulating on various social media platforms early Wednesday morning, with several unverified blogs claiming the veteran actor had died. As is common with such hoaxes, the news spread like wildfire, causing distress to millions of fans globally who have admired Edochie's career since his legendary portrayal of Okonkwo in Things Fall Apart. The lack of credible sources didn't stop the trend, prompting the family to take immediate action to prevent further misinformation.

​Leo Edochie Speaks Out: "A Lie from the Pit of Hell"

​Addressing the public on behalf of the family, Pete’s eldest son, Leo Edochie, released a video via his official Instagram page to set the record straight. Visibly displeased by the insensitive rumors, Leo described the news as a "lie from the pit of hell." He expressed frustration over the influx of calls and messages he received from concerned individuals across the world.

​"Our father is alive, hale and hearty," Leo declared in the video. He didn't stop at just debunking the news; he sent a stern warning to those peddling the falsehood, stating that wishing death upon someone often results in the person living longer while the "wishers" face the consequences of their negativity.

​The Persistence of Celebrity Death Hoaxes

​This is not the first time Chief Pete Edochie has been a victim of such baseless claims. In an era where clickbait dominates digital journalism, veteran celebrities are often targeted to drive traffic to unscrupulous websites. The Edochie family’s quick reaction serves as a reminder to the public to always verify news through official family channels or reputable media outlets like Daily Post Nigeria before sharing.

​Pete Edochie’s Current Status and Legacy

​At 78 (approaching 79), Pete Edochie remains a pillar of Nollywood. Known for his proverbs, deep voice, and commanding screen presence, he is often referred to as the "Lion of Africa." His family has assured fans that he is currently enjoying his time, far removed from the digital chaos. The veteran actor continues to be a symbol of cultural pride for the Igbo people and Nigeria at large, with his contributions to the film industry remaining unmatched.

​Conclusion: A Call for Responsible Social Media Use

​The viral scare involving Pete Edochie highlights the dark side of the internet. While the family has successfully debunked the rumours, the incident calls for stricter regulations on misinformation. Fans can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the "Ebubedike" of Nollywood is still very much with us. As the family rightly pointed out, these false reports will only serve to attract even more "long life and prosperity" to the legendary actor.