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Tag: Junior Pope

  • Boat rider involved in Junior Pope’s death had no certification – Investigation reveals

    Boat rider involved in Junior Pope’s death had no certification – Investigation reveals

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released a preliminary report on the tragic boat accident on the Anam River that claimed the life of actor Junior Pope and four others on April 10.

    The report, presented by NSIB Director Cpt. Alex Baden on May 24, revealed that the bureau first learned of the incident through social media rather than official channels.

    Investigations found that the boat’s driver lacked proper certification. The report further explained that the boat was operating at high speed when it collided with a slower-moving wooden fishing canoe, causing the boat to capsize and eject all passengers into the river.

    The sole occupant of the canoe avoided the collision by jumping into the water.

    “There was only one person on the wooden fishing canoe. This rowdiness in the boat distracted the driver and he was not looking out as required. The boat was on high speed and the crossing canoe was moving at a much slower speed.

    “The only occupant of the canoe, on sighting the fast approaching boat jumped into the river and escaped; The boat collided with the canoe at a high speed which resulted in the boat capsizing and all persons onboard were flung into Anam River.” the director said.

    Contradicting the movie producer’s claims, the NSIB reported that only one boat passenger had a life jacket, which they had brought themselves, and this person was among the survivors.

    The report also highlighted the absence of a passenger manifest and the lack of timely rescue operations, including the absence of trained divers.

    “Only one passenger on the outboard engine fibre boat was wearing a life jacket. The only passenger wearing a life jacket came with it and was not provided by the operator. The passenger wearing the life jacket was one of the survivors. The boat was fitted with an outboard engine. There was no manifest of passengers and persons onboard the boat. Rescue operation was not timely and there were no trained divers around to assist in the operation,” the report added.

    The NSIB’s safety recommendations called on the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to ensure the registration of all boats engaged in commercial transport on national inland waterways.

    Furthermore, the NSIB emphasized the need for NIWA to implement and enforce robust safety protocols to prevent future tragedies on the waterways.

  • VIDEO: Veteran actor Pete Edochie’s soothing message to the family of late Jnr Pope

    VIDEO: Veteran actor Pete Edochie’s soothing message to the family of late Jnr Pope

    Nollywood veteran Pete Edochie has joined in mourning the untimely passing of his colleague, Junior Pope.

    In a heartfelt video shared on his Instagram page, the seasoned actor urged Nigerians to refrain from posting meaningless content about the late actor’s death on social media, allowing him to rest in peace.

    Edochie emphasized the unexpected and unfortunate nature of Junior Pope’s demise, describing him as a precious gift to humanity.

    He called for prayers for the acceptance of the actor’s soul by God and urged people to avoid the social media drama surrounding his death.

    Acknowledging the responsibility taken on by well-known businessman E-Money to care for Junior Pope’s children, Edochie expressed gratitude.

    He described Junior Pope as a gift not only to Nigerians but to the world, lamenting the sudden loss and emphasizing the need for respectful mourning.

    Edochie’s heartfelt appeal resonated as he urged everyone to let Junior Pope’s soul find peace, appealing to the collective conscience to honor the departed with dignity.

    His remarks follow allegations made by his son, Yul Edochie, asserting that the late actor had once betrayed him.

    In an Instagram post, Yul mentioned betrayal by the deceased as the primary reason for his absence at the funeral.

    Watch video below:

  • Video from the funeral of Nollywood actor, Junior Pope

    Video from the funeral of Nollywood actor, Junior Pope

    The funeral of renowned Nigerian actor John Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, is currently being held a month after his passing.

    Photographs from the ceremony have surfaced online, eliciting a wave of emotional responses from netizens on social media.

    These images poignantly depict Junior Pope’s bereaved family, with a focus on his wife and three children, who are visibly mourning.

    Particularly heart-wrenching is the sight of his sons, who are struggling to accept the loss of their cherished father.

    The funeral rites are taking place in Junior Pope’s ancestral town of Ukehe, situated in the Nsukka, Igboetiti Local Government Area of Enugu State.

    Watch video below:

  • Junior Pope to be buried on May 17, 2024 – Family announces

    Junior Pope to be buried on May 17, 2024 – Family announces


    The family of the late Nollywood actor, John Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, has announced his burial arrangements.

    Junior Pope, aged 43, tragically lost his life on April 10 in a boat accident on the River Niger during a movie shoot.

    In a recent update, the family disclosed that funeral proceedings began on April 23 with a requiem mass at Saint John-Mary Vianney Parish in Asaba, Delta State.

    The schedule of events to honor the late actor includes another requiem mass planned for May 13 at Christ the King Catholic Parish in G.R.A, Enugu.

    Additionally, a tribute and candlelight event will be held at the Amadeo Event Center in Enugu on May 14.

    On May 16, a wake will take place at his hometown, Uwala Abaka, Ukehe, in Nsukkaa, Igboetiti LGA of Enugu State.

    A burial mass is scheduled for May 17 at St. Peter’s Parish, followed by interment.

    Finally, a Thanksgiving mass will be held on Sunday, May 19, at St. Peter’s Parish Ukche Nsukkaa, Igboetiti LGA, Enugu.

    Watch post below:

  • Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau to launch probe on boat accident that killed Junior Pope, others

    Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau to launch probe on boat accident that killed Junior Pope, others

    The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the tragic boat accident on the Anam River in Anambra State, occurring on April 10, 2024.

    In a recent statement, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Bimbo Oladeji, confirmed the commencement of the investigation.

    The primary aim of this inquiry is to unveil the circumstances surrounding the accident, identify any contributing factors, and propose preventive measures to avoid similar incidents.

    The accident, resulting in the loss of five lives, including the prominent Nollywood actor Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, has deeply impacted the nation.

    The victims also include Abigail Frederick, Precious Oforum, and Joseph Anointing.

    The incident unfolded as a speedboat, carrying twelve film crew members and a boat operator, collided tragically with a canoe on the Anam River.

    NSIB’s Director General, Captain Alex Badeh, mentioned that an investigation team has been dispatched to the accident site, and the inquiry is underway.

    He stated, “The investigation scope encompasses examining the wreckage of both vessels involved in the collision, interviewing surviving crew members and witnesses, reviewing operational protocols for commercial speedboats, analysing weather and environmental conditions during the accident, and evaluating compliance with relevant safety standards and regulations for inland waterway transportation.”

    The NSIB, under the guidance of its Director-General, will collaborate with the Anambra State Police Command’s Marine Police section, maritime authorities, and industry experts to investigate this recent boat accident on the Anam River.

    The investigation will yield both preliminary and final reports, aiming to provide recommendations to prevent similar accidents in the future.

    Captain Badeh expressed, “The NSIB extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who perished in this tragic incident.”

    “We empathize with your sorrow and are fully committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of this tragedy and prevent its recurrence in the future.”

  • Junior Pope showed signs of life when rescued – Actors Guild

    Junior Pope showed signs of life when rescued – Actors Guild


    Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), revealed that late Nollywood actor Junior Pope exhibited signs of life upon arrival at the hospital.

    Rollas recounted how witnesses observed slight movements in the actor’s fingers, leading them to believe he had survived despite being submerged underwater for over two hours.

    Consequently, the Guild made a public announcement celebrating what they believed to be a miraculous survival.

    However, despite the medical team’s diligent efforts to revive him, Junior Pope tragically passed away on Wednesday evening, as stated by the AGN President in a social media update.

    “It is so so sad that our joy was shortlived. My first post was out of excitement when we noticed his tingling fingers. Two notable hospitals tried their best to revive him but to no avail. God knows best. We finally lost him. Mr Friday’s corpse has been identified but three other corpses are yet to be found,” Mr Rollas’ post read.

    Junior Pope passed away on Wednesday, April 9, while on a filming expedition in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, Nigeria.

    According to reports from Vanguard Nigeria, Junior Pope tragically lost his life during a boat excursion that resulted in the capsizing of the vessel, leading to his drowning, along with two other unidentified actors.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) disclosed that Junior Pope began his journey in the Nollywood industry in 2006, initially participating in movie auditions and securing minor roles.

    He often portrayed characters such as bodyguards, palace attendants, or servants.

    However, his breakthrough came in 2007 when he gained prominence for his role in the acclaimed Nollywood blockbuster “Secret Adventures,” directed by Tchidi Chikere.

    He acted in more than 150 Nollywood movies which include: “Secret Adventures”, “Mad sex”, “Bitter Generation”, “Vengeance of Bullet”, “The Cat”, “The Generals”, “Wrong Initiation” among others.


    In 2010, he clinched the title of Nollywood Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the Entertainment Factory Awards.

    His versatile acting repertoire also encompasses portraying characters such as criminals, villains, armed robbers, militants, or hitmen in movies, often sharing the screen with industry stalwarts like Emma Ehumadu, Sylvester Madu, Zubby Michael, Jim Iyke, Alaso Wariboko, Gentle Jack, Hanks Anuku, and Jerry Amilo.

    Among his numerous accolades are the Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice (AMVC) Awards and the title of Best Actor of the Year at the Africa Movie Academy (AMA) Awards, among others.

  • Ruth Kadiri reacts to actor Junior Pope’s death ; appreciates Regina Daniels, AGN for trying to save actor

    Ruth Kadiri reacts to actor Junior Pope’s death ; appreciates Regina Daniels, AGN for trying to save actor

    Nigerian actress Ruth Kadiri has expressed her sorrow over the untimely passing of her colleague, Junior Pope, and has extended her gratitude to fellow industry members for their support during the tragic incident.

    Junior Pope, a beloved Nollywood star and father of three, tragically lost his life on April 10 following a marine accident in River Niger, Asaba, Delta State.

    In the wake of this heartbreaking event, Ruth Kadiri took to Instagram to acknowledge the efforts of Regina Daniels, Rita Daniels, Emeka Rollas (the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria), and other Nollywood colleagues who stood by during the hospital crisis.

    Ruth recounted how she, Regina, and Emeka Rollas remained at the hospital until the early hours of the morning, hoping for a miracle that could save Junior Pope’s life.

    She expressed her deep sadness at his passing, acknowledging the inherent risks that filmmakers and producers often face in their line of work.

    In her touching message, Ruth urged everyone to remember Junior Pope’s legacy and to recognize that passion alone cannot defy fate.

    She concluded with a prayer for his soul, urging reflection on the fragility of life in their demanding industry.

    See post below:

  • You should lose your job – Netizens drag nurse who shared video of Junior Pope’s unconscious wife

    You should lose your job – Netizens drag nurse who shared video of Junior Pope’s unconscious wife

    Netizens are expressing outrage and calling for consequences after a Nigerian nurse shared a video on TikTok of the unconscious wife of late actor Junior Pope following his tragic demise.

    The nurse’s video quickly went viral, showing the actor’s widow in the hospital and disclosing that she was unconscious due to the shock of her husband’s death.

    The video sparked a wave of criticism from Nigerians, with many condemning the nurse for sharing such a sensitive clip online. Comments flooded social media, with some netizens even calling for the nurse to lose her job over the incident.

    The tragic passing of Junior Pope, who lost his life in a boat accident while en route to a movie shoot on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, has left Nollywood in mourning.

    Filmmaker Sam Olatunji shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that Junior Pope, along with three others, lost their lives in the accident.

    Junior Pope, also known as Pope Dikeh, is survived by his wife and three children. His untimely death has left a void in the Nigerian entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a talented actor.

  • Actors Guild announces suspension of film productions involving boat rides

    Actors Guild announces suspension of film productions involving boat rides


    In response to the tragic loss of Nollywood actor Junior Pope and three crew members, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has taken the decision to indefinitely suspend all film productions involving riverine areas and boat rides.

    The incident, which took place on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, has deeply affected the entertainment industry and fans worldwide.

    In an official statement, Emeka Rollas, the National President of AGN, revealed that the tragic incident occurred on the set of a movie titled “The Other Side of Life,” produced by Adamma Luke.

    Furthermore, the statement declared Thursday, April 11, as a “No Shoot Day” for all Nollywood filmmakers, as a mark of respect for the lives lost and to allow for reflection on safety measures.

    “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,” the statement directed.

    Meanwhile, the film titled “The Other Side of Life” has been suspended indefinitely.

    “May their souls rest in peace,” the statement added.

  • Who was Junior Pope?

    Who was Junior Pope?

    In the aftermath of the tragic demise of actor Junior Pope, the world grieves the loss of a prolific talent whose memorable performances illuminated screens.

    Yet, beyond his captivating on-screen persona, Junior Pope’s life was adorned with notable accomplishments that often escaped public recognition.

    The Nollywood luminary passed away on April 10, 2024. His life was claimed in a heartbreaking incident as he drowned alongside three others while filming a movie in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, during a boat excursion.

    Who was Junior Pope?

    1. He was married with three young kids

    In 2014, he got married to Jennifer Awele Okpuno. He had three sons with his wife.

    Their youngest son is three years old.

    His wife runs an events and décor company in Nigeria.

    2. He was born in Cameroun

    The actor was born on May 7, 1984, in Bamenda, Cameroon.

    He completed his primary and secondary school education in Cameroun before relocating to Nigeria.

    3. He holds a degree in Accountancy

    Upon arriving in Nigeria, he attended the University of Nigeria Nsukka, situated in Enugu State.

    He graduated with a degree in Accountancy.

    4. He shot his first movie in 2006

    Junior Pope started his career in acting and made his debut in Nollywood in 2006.

    He rose to fame in 2007 after starring in a popular blockbuster movie titled ‘Secret Adventures’.

    Junior Pope has since acted in over 100 movies, including Secret Adventures, Mad Sex, Bitter Generation, Vengeance of Bullet, and many others.

    5. He was acknowledged by the industry in 2010

    In 2010, the late Junior Pope won an award for Nollywood’s ‘Most Promising Actor’ at the Nigeria Entertainment Factory Awards.

    6. He recently purchased a mansion

    In December 2023, Junior Pope announced with excitement that he had finally purchased a home.

    He took to Instagram to share pictures of the plush mansion amid the outpour of congratulations from his colleagues.

    7. Known for playing hitman or ‘warrior’ roles

    The late actor, although versatile, was well known for taking up roles of a ‘villain’ and warrior.

    The late Junior Pope was usually seen with the likes of Emma Ehumadu, Sylvester Madu, Zubby Michael, Jim Iyke, Alaso Wariboko, Gentle Jack, Hanks Anuku, and Jerry Amilo, among others, who also portrayed similar characters in movies.

  • Meet late Junior Pope’s wife and 3 kids

    Meet late Junior Pope’s wife and 3 kids

    Earlier today, tragic news surfaced regarding the loss of Nollywood actor, Junior Pope, following a boat capsizing incident in the Anam River.

    Multiple sources have confirmed that the actor drowned, despite efforts to rescue him proving unsuccessful. The Nigerian entertainment community is reeling from the shock of his sudden passing, especially given that he was returning home after shooting a movie.

    Reports indicate that four bodies have been recovered so far, with search efforts ongoing. Junior Pope, who has been married to his wife for over a decade and shares three sons with her, recently unveiled their newly built home last year.

    The actor, also known for his modeling and television appearances, gained prominence through roles in productions such as “Wrong Initiation,” “We Meet Again,” and “Eye of the Eagle,” amassing over 25 acting credits throughout his career.

    His Instagram account, jnrpope, boasts a substantial following of over 2.2 million followers.

    Pope Obumneme Odonwodo, born to Mr. and Mrs. Luke Odonwodo, exchanged vows with Jennifer Awele Okpuno in July 2014. The couple is blessed with three sons.

    Take a look at some photos featuring his wife and children below:

  • Nollywood actor, Junior Pope, is alive – Reports

    Nollywood actor, Junior Pope, is alive – Reports

    Recent development indicates that Nollywood actor, Junior Pope, has not passed away as earlier reported.

    Earlier reports had it that Junior Pope tragically passed away while en route to a movie shoot.

    Filmmaker Sam Olatunji shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that Junior Pope, along with three others, lost their lives in a boat accident.

    They were en route to a movie set when the tragic incident occurred.

    But recent reports indicate that he was resuscitated and is currently receiving treatment at St James Hospital at Asaba.

    Renowned for showcasing his family and diligently portraying his movie characters, Junior Pope is not only a celebrated movie star but also active in creating skits that captivated his audience.

    He is 39 years old with a wife and three lovely children.

  • “I get 3 children, abi you go raise them?” – Junior Pope’s last words before his death

    “I get 3 children, abi you go raise them?” – Junior Pope’s last words before his death

    A video of the renowned Nollywood actor Pope Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, surfaced on social media shortly after reports of his passing.

    He was en route to a movie shoot when he needed to cross the River Niger with a hired boat and a sailor.

    During their journey on the river, Junior Pope could be heard pleading with the sailor to reduce his speed, expressing his fear of losing his life and leaving his children at home.

    “I beg no vex you hear. Na only me they born oo. Na only me they born. I get 3 children, abi you go raise them? I get 3 children abi you go raise them. Bros I beg! He exclaimed. Oh Jesus! What is this?

    Watch video below:

  • BREAKING: Popular Nigerian actor Junior Pope reportedly dead

    BREAKING: Popular Nigerian actor Junior Pope reportedly dead

    Nollywood mourns the loss of renowned actor Junior Pope, who tragically passed away while en route to a movie shoot.

    Filmmaker Sam Olatunji shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that Junior Pope, along with three others, lost their lives in a boat accident.

    They were en route to a movie set when the tragic incident occurred.

    Many of his fans are struggling to come to terms with the news, as the lively actor seemed his usual self just a day before his passing.

    Renowned for showcasing his family and diligently portraying his movie characters, Junior Pope was not only a celebrated movie star but also active in creating skits that captivated his audience. He was 39 years old.

    Sam shared a photo of Junior Pope with the following caption: