Veteran Nollywood actor Hanks Anuku has recently spoken out to clarify his mental health status and address rumors surrounding his alleged involvement with drugs.
Last year, a disturbing video circulated online, showing Mr Anuku in a distressed state, leading many to question his mental well-being.
However, Hanks Anuku in a recent conversation with Lucky Udu, has now confirmed that he does not engage in activities that could compromise his mental health.
Hanks Anuku also opened up about his experiences with depression, acknowledging that he may have turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism during difficult times.
He expressed his hurt and disappointment at being betrayed by those he trusted
“I am not a mad man… Some people say I was on hard drugs. I don’t do hard drugs. Back in the days I used to smoke but not anymore.
“I never went into anything hard drugs. I have self control. There’s probably where I was depressed and had to have a little drink like beers or wine. That’s it. I don’t drink hard liquor. But I was just isolated because I never thought I would be betrayed by my own people. It hurt me so much” he explained.
Hanks Anuku had earlier opened up on how AGN stigmatized him and how his family and colleagues avoided him.
Hanks recounted how his own family, including his twin brother and wife, chose to believe the damaging speculations of drug addiction over his sincere explanations that nothing was wrong with him.
Anuku said their decision to distance themselves plunged him into profound despair and loneliness.
Adding insult to injury, Anuku recounted the distressing experience of being stigmatized by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), with his colleagues in the movie industry abruptly ceasing communication and job offers.
