The Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has expressed deep shock at the death of Nollywood actor, John Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope.
The late actor died with three of his colleagues while returning from a movie location in a boat accident when they fell into Anam River in Anambra on Wednesday.
The incident happened barely 48 hours after the death of Kannywood actress Saratu Gidado.
Musawa, in a statement by her media aide, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, described the recent spate of deaths in the entertainment industry as horrific and tragic.
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She said, “It’s a sad week for us in the creative and movie industry and a black Wednesday. Losing two lives in three days is not only horrifying but colossal.
“We have lost great young talents and entertainment providers while generating content for Nigerian movie lovers.
“We mourn and commiserate with their families. We stand by them at this tragic time and our thoughts are with all those who know them.”
Meanwhile, the Actors Guild of Nigeria has stopped all film productions involving riverine areas and boat rides following the death of Pope and three crew members.
The guild’s president, Ejezie Rollas, disclosed this in a circular dated April 11, 2024, and posted on social media on Thursday.
He said, “Following the tragic incident of a boat mishap that claimed the life of Junior Pope and three other crew members at the waterside of River Niger Cable point Asaba on April 10, all films that involve riverine areas and boat riding are hereby suspended indefinitely.
“There should be no shoot on all locations nationwide on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
“The film titled ‘The Other Side of Life’ is suspended indefinitely.
“Also, no actor is allowed to work with Adamma Luke as a producer till further notice.
“While we keep searching for the bodies of the remaining persons, may their souls rest in peace.”
