LAGOS, Nigeria – In response to the recent boat accident that resulted in the tragic death of prominent Nollywood actor Junior Pope and three crew members, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, has announced an indefinite suspension of all film productions involving riverine areas and boat rides.
This decision, communicated by the guild’s President, Ejezie Rollas, through a circular dated April 11, 2024, reflects the organization’s commitment to the safety of its members and the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in film production settings.
The accident, which occurred on April 10 at the waterside of River Niger Cable point Asaba, has cast a somber shadow over Nigeria’s film industry, commonly known as Nollywood.
Junior Pope, who was starring in the film “The Other Side of Life,” produced by Adanma Luke, tragically lost his life alongside three other crew members under circumstances that have prompted the guild to take swift and decisive action.
In addition to the suspension of film shoots in riverine locations, the AGN has also imposed a temporary ban on any collaboration with producer Adanma Luke.
The circular explicitly states, “All films that involve riverine areas and boat riding are hereby suspended indefinitely…Also, no actor is allowed to work with Adanma Luke as a producer till further notice.”
The guild’s circular also declared a national day of mourning, with no film shoots to take place on Thursday, April 11, 2024, as a mark of respect for the deceased.
The statement concluded with a solemn tribute to the victims of the accident, “While we keep searching for the bodies of the remaining persons, may their souls rest in peace.”
The incident has reignited discussions around safety standards in Nollywood, pushing stakeholders to consider more stringent measures to protect actors and crew members during production.
The loss of Junior Pope, a well-regarded figure in the industry, and his colleagues, has highlighted the urgent need for improved safety protocols and support mechanisms for those affected by such tragedies.
