Veteran Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has opened up about his recent health struggles, revealing that walking has become difficult and that he sometimes wakes up with swelling in parts of his body.
The 79-year-old actor spoke about his condition while visiting ailing Ghanaian actor Emmanuel Armah in Accra, Ghana. Edochie was in the country as part of a legacy tour and used the visit to share words of encouragement with his colleague.
Speaking about his health, Edochie said he remains hopeful of recovering despite the physical difficulties he is experiencing.
“I’m not very well myself. I’m not. Walking is a problem for me now, but I still have hope that I will recover.”
He also disclosed that he sometimes notices swelling in his hands and legs after waking up, although the swelling eventually subsides.
Reflecting on his mortality, the veteran actor said he has asked God to take him when his time comes rather than allow his condition to become a burden to those around him.
“Whenever you feel it is time for me to go, just take me. Don’t let me bother the people who are around me. Just take me,” he said.
The revelation has drawn attention because Edochie remains one of Nollywood’s most recognisable veteran actors. His comments also highlight the personal challenges that can accompany ageing and health difficulties, while his expressed hope for recovery offers a more balanced picture of his current outlook.
Edochie’s career spans several decades. He began as a radio broadcaster in 1967 before making his acting debut in the 1985 television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. He has since appeared in more than 200 films and earned a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most respected actors.
