Lagos, Nigeria – Celebrated Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie has addressed the widespread concern surrounding her health after a viral video clip sparked unfounded rumors that she was battling cancer.
The speculation began after a segment from her television show, Mercy’s Menu, resurfaced online, showing the actress in conversation with veteran thespian Joke Silva, during which she opened up about a past health scare. The conversation quickly triggered panic among fans and admirers, many of whom rushed to social media to send prayers and messages of support under the assumption that the beloved film star had been diagnosed with cancer.
However, in a swift and heartfelt response, Mercy Johnson-Okojie took to her Instagram page to clarify the situation and reassure her followers that she is in good health.
“I Do Not Have Cancer” – Mercy Clears the Air
Speaking directly in a video message posted to her official Instagram handle, the actress addressed the confusion, stating clearly that while she had a cancer scare in the past, she does not have cancer and is currently healthy.
“Thank you to all of you who have been calling and sending messages and prayers. I do appreciate it so much, but I do not have cancer,” she said in the video, which has since gained thousands of views.
Mercy explained that the video clip circulating on social media was taken out of context and edited in a way that misrepresented her statements.
“I noticed that a clip from my TV show, Mercy’s Menu, has been flying around, and I think it was cut — they cut the clip,” she explained. “I said I had a cancer scare. It means that I had this swelling on my neck — you can probably still see the line — and my doctors felt it was something serious. I had issues with my thyroid.”
The actress further revealed that the growth on her neck was suspected to be cancerous at first, which prompted her to undergo surgery to have it removed. Fortunately, after further medical evaluation, the tumor was found to be non-cancerous.
“I had to do surgery to remove it, and by God’s grace, the results were not malignant,” she said. “I’m perfectly okay.”
Viral Clip Sparked Unwarranted Panic
The brief video, originally part of a more extensive conversation aired on her cooking and lifestyle TV show, quickly went viral on TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, sparking a flurry of reactions.
Many fans, not privy to the full context, interpreted her story as a public announcement of a cancer diagnosis. Concerned admirers took to comment sections and forums to express shock and sadness, praising her bravery and offering prayers.
“I had no idea she was going through this. May God heal her completely,” one fan wrote.
“Mercy Johnson is a strong woman. We are praying for her,” another commented, despite the clip being misinterpreted.
A Candid Conversation with Joke Silva
In the original full episode of Mercy’s Menu, which aired earlier this year, Mercy Johnson opened up candidly during a heart-to-heart chat with veteran actress Joke Silva. The two women spoke about life, health, and personal battles, with Mercy recounting how her health scare forced her to make critical decisions about her lifestyle.
“I was scared,” she admitted in the episode. “When you hear words like cancer from your doctor, everything changes. You start to see life differently.”
The episode, initially intended to inspire openness about health issues, has now become the center of a trending online conversation, albeit for unintended reasons.
Support from Fans and the Industry
Following her Instagram clarification, fans and colleagues in Nollywood have continued to show love and relief that the actress is doing well.
Veteran actress Ini Edo commented,
“Thank God you’re okay, Mercy. We love you.”
Actor and director Desmond Elliot wrote,
“Sending you strength always, sis. You’re a true warrior.”
Numerous fans also praised her for being transparent about her health journey and using her platform to educate others on the importance of early detection and medical intervention.
“Thank you for speaking up about thyroid issues. It’s not something many people talk about,” one Instagram user said.
Mercy Johnson: A Fighter in Every Sense
Mercy Johnson-Okojie, one of Nollywood’s most successful and beloved actresses, has always been known for her resilience, professionalism, and openness about family and personal life.
She is a mother of four and is married to Prince Odianosen Okojie, a businessman and politician. Despite the pressures of stardom and family life, Mercy has consistently managed to stay active in the film industry while also venturing into television and entrepreneurship.
Her show, Mercy’s Menu, has become a popular platform where celebrities and public figures not only cook but also share deep, personal stories, making it one of the few celebrity-led TV formats to blend food with real conversations.
An Important Lesson in Media Responsibility
The recent controversy has also reignited the conversation about responsible media consumption and the dangers of viral misinformation. Mercy’s case highlights how easily content can be misrepresented when clips are taken out of context, leading to unnecessary panic and emotional distress.
“Let’s be careful with the way we consume and share information,” one fan cautioned online. “A little context goes a long way.”
Mercy echoed similar sentiments in her video message, urging her fans not to jump to conclusions based on edited content.
“Let’s not cause fear where there’s none. I appreciate the love, but please rest assured — I am fine.”
Looking Forward
Mercy Johnson-Okojie has reassured her fans that she is healthy and full of energy. She continues to work on Mercy’s Menu and other entertainment projects and shows no signs of slowing down.
As the actress puts this health rumor to rest, she remains grateful for the outpouring of love and support — but also determined to keep using her platform for honest, uplifting conversations.
