The Death of Junior Pope Shakes Nollywood: The tranquility of Nollywood and a significant part of the nation was shattered on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, following the tragic demise of renowned actor Pope Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, and three others. They were confirmed dead after the boat they were traveling in, returning from a movie set, capsized in Asaba, Delta State.
A journey without return
Engaged in his craft on the set of the movie ‘The Other Side of Life’, produced by Adanma Luke, Pope found himself crossing the River Niger along with the cast and crew. Prior to boarding the boat, Pope captured a video urging the driver to navigate cautiously. In the heartfelt recording, the actor, conscious of the risks inherent in their profession, shared his concern, revealing he was an only child with three young children depending on him for upbringing.
“I implore you to reduce the speed. I am the sole child of my parents, responsible for the upbringing of my three children,” he pleaded with the boat operator.
Tragically, upon their return from the movie shoot, Pope’s worst fears were realized as the boat capsized, claiming his life along with three other crew members.
Confusion as actor was rumoured to still be alive
Following the initial widespread news of his demise, there emerged a glimmer of hope when reports circulated suggesting that Pope had regained consciousness.
Emeka Rollas, the president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, took to Instagram to share the encouraging news, stating, “What God cannot do does not exist. Junior Pope is alive. He is undergoing treatment in the hospital.”
Amidst online rumors spreading like wildfire, it was alleged that a mortuary attendant had mistakenly taken Pope, who was still alive, to the morgue. Additionally, another actor present at the scene, Stanley, shared a video suggesting that Pope was being transported to the waterside for rituals to facilitate his revival.
However, as tensions mounted and uncertainty lingered, Rollas deleted his initial post, leaving Pope’s fans and Nigerians in further confusion regarding his condition.
Hours later, the heartbreaking truth emerged as Rollas confirmed Pope’s passing. He clarified that his earlier announcement of Pope’s recovery stemmed from a moment of excitement when they observed a slight movement in Pope’s fingers.
In a somber follow-up post, Rollas expressed profound sadness, acknowledging that despite the efforts of medical professionals from two notable hospitals, Pope could not be revived. He concluded with the poignant acknowledgment that “God knows the best,” marking the final realization of their loss.
Jerry Amilo bashed for posting video of Pope’s remains
Amidst the online turmoil, actor Jerry Amilo faced harsh criticism for sharing a video of Pope’s lifeless body on a hospital bed, with cotton wool blocking his nostrils.
In the video, Amilo was seen standing beside the bed with Rollas and another actress. However, Amilo later issued an apology video the following day, expressing regret for his previous post. He stated, “I am making this video because my fans, who have supported me through thick and thin, have brought to my attention the impact of the post I made about Junior Pope’s passing. Those who know me understand that I don’t seek attention. Unfortunately, the post was misunderstood by some. I shared it to clarify doubts about whether he had truly passed away or not. My intention was never to seek attention. I am a realist, and if my post caused harm, I sincerely apologize.”
Anger over the absence of life jackets
As the reality of Pope’s death and that of others sank in, many questioned why the actors and crew members crossed the vast river without life jackets. Some also wondered why cardiopulmonary resuscitation was not immediately administered to Pope upon retrieval from the water, and why he was initially taken to a morgue and a traditional healer instead of a hospital.
However, actor and survivor TC Okafor claimed that as the boat journey commenced, he sprinkled cash and soft drinks into the water as a form of appeasement.
He mentioned that only the director and the director of photography (DOP) were equipped with life jackets on the boat.
However, some individuals also contended that according to local customs, noise should not have been made while traveling on the water on a market day. Allegations arose that Okafor had rung a bell while on the boat, a gesture considered taboo in the area.
Further elaborating on the accident’s sequence, Okafor recounted, “I instructed everyone to stow their phones away, but Pope began recording a video. While the video was ongoing, the captain, positioned behind Junior Pope, seemed more concerned about his appearance in the video than the surroundings. I noticed a small canoe ahead of our boat and tried to alert the captain. However, due to his earphones and possible music playing, he did not hear my warnings. By the time he noticed the canoe, it was too late. Our boat collided with the canoe’s tail end, causing it to capsize.”
He attributed his survival to clinging onto the boat’s rope as it overturned. Okafor also mentioned that some witnesses to the accident promptly rushed to their aid with their own boats.
Celebrities criticize substandard conditions on film sets
As the industry mourned the loss of the talented individuals, many actors expressed frustration over the prevalent substandard conditions on movie sets.
Expressing her dismay at the tragic loss, actress Sarah Martins placed blame on Luke for their deaths. In a social media post, she wrote, “We have lost him at last! A very low-budget movie attempting to elevate local standards without providing essential facilities! Now, we have lost a star, a father, a son, a brother, a husband, and innocent crew members striving to support their families. Adanma Luke, you bear responsibility for this.”
In response to Martin’s post, another actress, Destiny Etiko, criticized her, stating that it was not the appropriate time to assign blame. She wrote, “Timing matters, Sarah. This is completely inappropriate.”
Popular actress Ini Edo also reacted to the tragic news, expressing, “Junior Pope should not have had to sacrifice his life for Nollywood to recognize the necessity for a comprehensive regulatory framework that safeguards entire productions. The industry needs a thorough revamp with practical guidelines and regulations that address everyone’s needs, especially in emergencies. Rest in peace, brother. This loss deeply affects us all.”
AGN and DGN Responses
Following the fatalities, various stakeholders in the industry, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and the Director’s Guild of Nigeria (DGN), have responded with diverse reactions.
As a mark of mourning for the deceased, the AGN decreed a suspension of all activities on set for Thursday, April 11. Additionally, they imposed a ban on Adanma Luke.
In a released statement, the guild announced, “In light of the tragic boat accident resulting in the loss of Mr. John Paul Odonwodo, also known as Junior Pope, and four other crew members during filming on the River Niger in Asaba for the movie ‘The Other Side of Life’, produced by Adamma Luke, the guild’s leadership has made the following decisions: All productions involving riverine areas and boat scenes are suspended i
“Furthermore, the film ‘Another Side of Life’ has been suspended indefinitely. No actor is permitted to collaborate with Adamma Luke as a producer until further notice.”
The DGN, on its part, pledged to launch an investigation into the tragic incident. In a statement signed by Victor Okhai, the President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria and Chairman of the Federation of Nollywood Guilds and Associations, it stated, “It is with profound sorrow that we received the news of the tragic loss of some of our members in a boat accident.
“The passing of actor Junior Pope and three other crew members—Abigail Frederick (Vice Chairman CDGN, Akwa Ibom State, and makeup artist), Precious Oforum (sound technician), and Joseph Anointing (Gaffer)—who were on the set of Adamma Luke’s ‘The Other Side of Life’ is indeed one tragedy too many.
“We extend our condolences to their families and their respective associations and assure them of our commitment to launch an inquiry into the cause of this tragedy.”
Tributes Pour In
Paying homage to Pope, veteran actor Kanayo O Kanayo wrote, “How can I find peace, writing yet another condolence message just weeks after the loss of my other colleagues? This time, it’s for my son, ‘Ikenga,’ in the revered series ‘Professor Johnbull’ by Globacom.
“Yesterday’s rollercoaster of emotions, from hope to despair, demonstrated the fervent prayers of Nigerians and non-Nigerians alike for Junior Pope‘s recovery. There are many pertinent questions arising from this unfortunate and heartbreaking incident. The deaths of Pope and fellow colleagues could have been prevented with basic adherence to operational guidelines within the various guilds of the industry. The movie industry urgently requires a thorough overhaul to instill professionalism. Actors, regardless of stature, must realize their human limitations.
“Allow me to implore the AGN President, Emeka Rollas, to issue a decree to all producers who flout professional engagement standards—such as engaging in sexual harassment, demanding money for roles, neglecting to provide meals for artists, casting based solely on car ownership, and non-payment of artist fees. To the bereaved families, my heartfelt condolences. May their souls find eternal rest. Oh Lord, grant us solace.”
Another colleague, Jim Iyke, expressed
“Dear Lord, I am well-acquainted with profound loss. While I dare not question your divine will, my heart is heavy with countless unanswered questions. Words fail me. To the giver and taker of life, I surrender, but this loss is unique—a pain and sorrow I cannot fully comprehend. Rest with God, JP.”
Renowned movie producer and actress Ruth Kadiri added, “My heart is shattered. As filmmakers, we often take risks in this profession. Working until 3 a.m. is practically routine in this industry. I cannot cast stones or question why. This tragedy serves as a reminder that passion alone cannot safeguard lives. JP, may your soul find peace, and may your family find strength to endure this loss.”
Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah shared on her Instagram page, “RIP Junior Pope and crew members. This is truly heart-wrenching. May we not perish in the pursuit of our livelihoods.”
Rita Dominic penned her tribute, “At times, words elude us. Yet, who are we mere mortals to challenge the will of God? May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace, amen.”
Nosa Rex, another colleague, lamented, “My hopes soared upon hearing of your survival. My heart swelled with joy. But alas, hope was dashed once more. You departed before your time. Rest in peace for now, my brother. The storyteller you appointed will share your tale when the time is right.”
Another actor, Dave Ogbeni, shared, “The day before the accident, we shared drinks after watching the Arsenal/Bayern Munich match. He mentioned, ‘Dave, I think it’s time to share my story with the bloggers.’ I replied, ‘Bro, it’s not necessary. We can resolve this without involving the world.’ He looked me in the eyes and said, ‘What do you mean? Since December, I’ve been gradually fading away, and you’re telling me not to share my story with the world? If I don’t make it, you’ll be the one to tell my story.’ The next day, he passed away.”
A Dedicated Family Man
Beyond his acting endeavors, Pope was known for his unwavering commitment to his family, particularly his three sons and wife, Jennifer Awele, who directs an event management and planning company named Dope.
In numerous interviews, Pope emphasized that his family’s well-being was his top priority, a sentiment reinforced by his final video where he expressed his desire to raise his children. He frequently shares their pictures and videos on social media and cherishes spending quality time with them.
Pope often credited his wife for positively influencing his career and financial stability since their 2014 marriage. Celebrating her birthday on January 20, 2022, he wrote, “Happy Birthday to the woman whose blessings propelled me from earning N10,000/N15,000 in Nollywood to hundreds of thousands.”
Addressing comments about the money he spent on her birthday, Pope remarked, “The money I sprayed on her was from her blessings. It came from her prayers and agreeing to marry me. It was because of my love for her and her significant contributions to my growth as an actor.”
He also emphasized the importance of involving his wife in decision-making processes and proudly shared that he was present for the birth of all his children, ensuring he spends ample time with them whenever he’s home. He stated, “Whenever I’m home, my kids know I’m there for them. I make sure to compensate for the days I’ve been away.”
