“I do not have cancer” – Mercy Johnson clears the air after viral thyroid scare clip sparks concern
Nollywood star Mercy Johnson-Okojie has responded to a wave of public concern following the circulation of a video clip where she discussed a past cancer scare and thyroid surgery, assuring fans that she is perfectly healthy and cancer-free.
The viral clip, taken from her lifestyle show Mercy’s Menu, featured a conversation with veteran actress Joke Silva, during which Johnson-Okojie revealed she had experienced sudden weight loss and had to undergo surgery to remove a tumour from her thyroid.
This led many fans to misinterpret her words, believing the actress had been diagnosed with cancer—prompting a flood of messages, prayers, and support across social media.
Mercy Johnson sets the record straight
In a video message shared on her Instagram page on Tuesday, May 20, the actress expressed gratitude for the outpouring of concern but firmly clarified the facts:
“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.
“I noticed that a clip from my TV show, Mercy’s Menu, has been flying around and I think it was cut… I said I had a cancer scare. It means that I had this swelling on my neck—if you can see the line there—and my doctors felt it was something serious. I had problems with my thyroid.”
“I’m perfectly okay. Thank you so much for all of your calls and your messages. I’m perfectly fine and I do not have cancer.”
What actually happened?
Johnson-Okojie explained that during a routine medical examination, doctors discovered a swelling on her neck, initially suspected to be cancerous. Following further evaluation, the tumour was found to be non-cancerous, and she successfully underwent thyroid removal surgery.
Her candid account of the experience during her TV show was intended to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and medical vigilance, but a shortened clip taken out of context caused unnecessary panic among her fans.
Fans relieved, but reminded of the power of context
While many fans expressed relief at the actress’s clarification, the episode also sparked conversations around the dangers of misinformation and video manipulation on social media, especially regarding health issues.
Mercy Johnson-Okojie, one of Nollywood’s most beloved stars, remains active both on-screen and off, balancing her entertainment career with family life and health advocacy.
