- Ini Edo noted that Jnr Pope did not have to sacrifice his life for Nollywood to realize the need for a long needed regulatory structure that would safeguard the entire production.
- She stated that the system has to undergo a total overhaul with practical rules and regulations that caters to everyone in cases of emergencies.
Nollywood has been left in shock following the tragic death of actor Pope Obumneme Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope.
The actor lost his life in a devastating accident when the boat he was on, along with other actors, capsized while crossing the River Niger during a movie shoot.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian film industry, prompting soul-searching and calls for change.
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has taken a decisive step. They have barred actors from collaborating with Adanma Luke, the producer of the ill-fated movie that resulted in the loss of Junior Pope’s life and three others.
This move underscores the urgency of addressing safety and regulatory issues within the industry.
Ini Edo, a prominent actress and producer expressed her grief and frustration on Instagram.
She wrote:
“Jnr Pope did not have to sacrifice his life for Nollywood to realize the need for a long and much-needed regulatory structure that would safeguard entire productions. Yes, everyone is a producer now, and all are guilty of negligence to some extent. This has to stop. Junior Pope’s sacrifice is one too many, and it must count for something. The system needs a total overhaul with practical rules and regulations that cater to everyone, especially in cases of emergencies. I will never understand why the good ones leave us so soon. Rest in peace, brother. This loss cuts deeply.”
Following the demise of Junior Pope, the AGN president has revealed that 3 other people are still missing.
Rollas revealed that while the body of one victim, identified as Mr. Friday, has been recovered, the remains of the other three individuals are still undiscovered, compounding the tragedy.