Following a tragic incident in Nollywood, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has called for national prayers after two actors died on a movie set in Owerri.
The incident
The incident unfolded when four actors were rushed to the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Owerri after consuming a drink provided by the movie’s producer. The victims were immediately transported to the hospital, where two were confirmed dead upon arrival, while the other two were left in critical condition. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through Nollywood, as the cause of death remains unclear. Popular filmmaker Stanley Ontop shared a video that captured the moments leading up to the rush to the hospital, bringing attention to the devastating event.
AGN responds to tragedy
While the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) confirmed that the deceased actors were not members of the guild, the organisation has expressed deep concern over the loss. AGN President Emeka Rollas, in a heartfelt message shared on his Instagram page, urged the public to join in national prayers. He specifically called for a prayer session with Pastor Jerry Eze, a prominent Nigerian pastor known for his spiritual leadership. Rollas emphasised the need for collective prayers, citing the recurring deaths within Nollywood and the alarming nature of these incidents.
Rollas’ statement on the tragedy
In his post, Rollas stated, “The devil still wants this pattern of mass death repeated on an annual basis in Nollywood.” His statement echoed the sorrow and frustration felt by many in the industry, who have witnessed similar tragic events over the years. He also pointed out the similarity to last year’s tragedy, where a famous actor, Junior Pope, along with three other crew members, lost their lives during the production of the movie The Other Side of Life in Asaba, Delta State. This year’s tragic event in Owerri has raised fears that such deaths may become an annual occurrence in Nollywood.
A narrow escape
Rollas reflected on the stark reality that, “If not for God, the Owerri death toll could have been four persons,” referring to the possibility that more lives could have been lost had it not been for the quick action taken to save the other two actors. This comment draws attention to the precariousness of life on set and the importance of being vigilant in ensuring the safety of actors and crew members.
Call for prayer and reflection
The AGN president also shared his concern about the lack of accountability surrounding these incidents. Although the recent deaths involved actors who were not AGN members, Rollas noted the broader implications for the industry. He urged the guild’s members and Nollywood at large to prepare for the upcoming prayer event with Pastor Jerry Eze as a way to seek divine intervention and ensure that such tragedies do not continue.
A year of mourning
The recent deaths have stirred emotions within Nollywood, especially since they come exactly one year after the tragic incident in Asaba. In that case, Junior Pope, a beloved actor, and three others tragically died during the filming of The Other Side of Life. Following that incident, the AGN made it clear that it was impossible to sue the producer of the film, Actress Adanma Luke, because Junior Pope was not a dues-paying member of the guild at the time.
Safety concerns in Nollywood
These recurring tragedies have raised questions about the safety protocols on Nollywood sets. Although the exact cause of the deaths in Owerri remains under investigation, the industry is once again faced with the harsh reality that safety regulations and precautions may not always be followed, putting the lives of cast and crew members at risk.
The future of Nollywood: A call for change
The AGN’s call for national prayers highlights the deep sense of loss and the need for spiritual support to cope with the recurring tragedy that has plagued Nollywood in recent years. As the industry continues to mourn, many are hoping that these incidents will prompt changes in how safety is managed on movie sets, ensuring that no more lives are lost in such avoidable circumstances.
Looking ahead: Prayer and solidarity
In the coming days, actors, producers, and other members of the Nigerian film industry are expected to gather for the prayer session with Pastor Jerry Eze. The hope is that through prayer and reflection, Nollywood can find the strength to overcome these painful events and work together to ensure a safer and more secure future for all those involved in the making of Nigerian films.
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