ANTP dispels cancer rumours as Elesho undergoes surgery

The Association of Nigeria Theatre Arts Practitioners has dismissed reports linking veteran actor Adewale Elesho to skin cancer, following a successful facial operation.

Elesho, a former president of the association, recently attracted public attention after an injury was noticed on his face during the burial of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, in Ilaro, Ogun State.

Images of the actor with the facial injury circulated on social media, prompting speculation that he might be battling skin cancer.

The association, however, said the reports were speculative and urged the public not to draw conclusions about the actor’s condition.

The National Publicity Secretary of ANTP, Oluwafemi Adejonwo, popularly known as Femson, announced on Facebook on Sunday that Elesho had undergone surgery and was recovering.

“By God’s grace, his operation was successful. He is doing well and recovering,” Adejonwo said.

He thanked members of the public for their calls, prayers and concern, adding, “Continue to pray for his speedy recovery.”

The association had earlier confirmed the surgery in a statement while addressing the reports about Elesho’s health.

It said, “We hereby confirm that the operation was successful. He is stable and recuperating well.”

ANTP did not disclose the specific nature of the operation or the condition that necessitated it. It also did not confirm that Elesho had been diagnosed with skin cancer.

The association appealed to the public to disregard unverified claims about the actor’s health and continue to pray for his full recovery.