Pete Edochie discusses health struggles during Ghana visit

Veteran Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has spoken publicly about his health challenges during a visit to Ghana, saying he is experiencing difficulty walking and recurring swelling in parts of his body. The 79-year-old actor disclosed his condition while visiting his longtime Ghanaian friend and fellow actor, Emmanuel Armah, in Accra. Edochie said he remained hopeful of recovering despite the physical difficulties he was facing.

The visit formed part of Edochie’s engagements in Ghana, including the launch of the Pete Edochie Legacy Project. The initiative was established to honour his contribution to African cinema, culture and storytelling and was launched during Accra Legacy Week. In a video circulated on Friday, Edochie said he was not in good health and described walking as a problem.

He also said that his hand and leg had at times become swollen. The actor expressed a wish that his condition would not make him a burden to his family. Edochie prayed for Armah’s recovery and provided financial assistance towards his treatment.

Armah has reportedly been dealing with severe health problems for almost 11 years. Armah’s wife, Stella, told Edochie that doctors believed her husband could improve. She said his illness began while he was working in the United States and that he had been unaware of high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels.

Stella said Armah continued to experience pain and had previously resisted physiotherapy, but was now receiving regular treatment in Kasoa. She added that he retained memories of people he had worked with and often asked about them.