Nigerian Artist Uzo Njoku Reports False HIV Rumour to Police Amid Ongoing Online Attacks

Nigerian-born artist Uzo Njoku, popularly known as Uzo Art, has reported a case to the Cybercrime Unit of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) after a social media user falsely claimed she was living with HIV on September 18, 2025.

The controversy began when an X user, @lukurawa16703, posted a picture of the artist alongside the caption: “Having AIDS can’t limit your beauty.  #HIVpatients.” The post quickly circulated, sparking concern from Uzo’s followers and fans.

Responding publicly, Njoku addressed the rumour in a tweet: “Hi guys, what would be the best step in Nigeria to handle someone spreading rumours about me having HIV?” 

She later confirmed that she had reported the case to the Cybercrime Unit of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID).

In an update, she expressed gratitude to her supporters: “Thank you, everyone. I was able to reach the Cybercrime Unit, FCID, and they are taking my case.”

Uzo has been facing online harassment ever since announcing plans to hold a show in Nigeria. This led to online backlash, including abuse and threats of physical violence. The initial cause of the controversy was a misspelling of the word owambe.

This online conflict has since escalated into a petition against her, which has garnered over 16,000 signatures.