In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, mourns the loss of one of its own. Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), has officially confirmed the passing of beloved Nollywood actor John Paul Odonwodo, affectionately known as Junior Pope.
Junior Pope, along with three crew members, met a tragic end in a boat mishap on the serene waters of Anam River in Anambra. The news sent shockwaves through the industry, prompting Rollas to declare Thursday as a solemn “No Shoot Day” to pay tribute to the departed souls.
Initially, Rollas had dismissed reports of Pope’s demise, but a somber post on his Instagram page shattered the fleeting hope. “It is so, so sad that our joy was short-lived,” Rollas lamented. Despite efforts by medical professionals, Pope could not be revived, leaving behind a void in the hearts of many.
In response to the tragedy, Rollas announced the indefinite suspension of all film shoots involving riverine areas and boat rides, including the production of “The Other Side of Life.” Moreover, an embargo was placed on actors collaborating with Adamma Luke as a producer until further notice, as the search for the missing crew members continues.
As the industry reels from the loss, tributes pour in from colleagues and fans alike, remembering Junior Pope for his talent and infectious energy on and off the screen. Rollas concluded his statement with a heartfelt prayer for the souls of the departed, echoing the collective grief felt throughout Nollywood.
In this moment of sorrow, the resilience of the Nollywood community shines through as they come together to honor the memory of one of their own. May Junior Pope and the other departed souls rest in eternal peace.
