A fresh death scare involving veteran Nollywood actor Lere Paimo has renewed public concern over recurring false online obituaries targeting Nigerian celebrities and politicians.
The rumour spread on November 29 after film journalist Seun Oleketuyi announced on social media that the actor had died, stating, “Chief Lere Paimo is dead… Baba survived a stroke twice.” Hours later, the Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners debunked the claim, confirming he was alive.
PEOPLES GAZETTE compiled a list of public figures who have faced similar hoaxes, including:
1. Olu Jacobs – repeatedly declared dead between 2020 and 2022 despite family denials.
2. Pete Edochie – falsely reported dead in 2013 and again in 2022.
3. Willie Obiano – rumoured dead earlier in November before debunking it in a video.
4. RMD – wrongly reported dead after a 2012 accident.
5. Odunlade Adekola – targeted at least five times since 2017.
6. Mahmood Yakubu – falsely declared dead in 2024.
7. Bobrisky – reported dead in 2020 before posting proof of life.
8. Ibrahim Babangida, Yakubu Gowon, Oladips, and Skiibii – all victims of similar hoaxes.
9. Cases where rumours preceded real deaths include Mr Ibu, Abiola Ajimobi, and Muhammadu Buhari.