Recent investigations have brought to light the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of Nollywood actor Jr Pope and four others in a boat accident on April 10, at Anam River in Anambra State. Contrary to earlier reports, Jr Pope was not provided with a life jacket by the boat operators, which has been confirmed by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).
Prince Uvo Kevin Oghogho, Chairman of the AGN committee investigating the accident, clarified that no life jacket was given to Jr Pope, debunking viral claims that he rejected one. Only the Director of Photography and the Sound Engineer were wearing life jackets, which they had hired from the boat operators. After the accident, new life jackets were hastily brought in by the operators, revealing a grave oversight in passenger safety.
The ill-fated journey began at Asaba jetty with Ononno jetty as the destination. According to survivors, Jr Pope was filming a video while his colleagues were enjoying the ride. The boat driver, distracted by the activities on board, crashed into a local fishing canoe at high speed. This collision caused the speedboat to capsize, throwing all occupants into the Anam River. Five passengers, including Jr Pope, died instantly, while seven others were rescued.
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Oghogho also dismissed rumors that Jr Pope was killed and thrown into the river, explaining that the bleeding from his nose was not unique to him; another victim exhibited similar symptoms. The doctor with the marine police performed CPR on Jr Pope and another victim, Friday, confirming their deaths before the bodies were taken to the Asaba morgue.
The committee’s report, presented to the AGN National Executive Council in Lagos, emphasized the urgent need for stricter safety protocols. It recommended that the Ministry of Transportation or Inland Waterways enforce the provision of life jackets for all passengers on water transport. Oghogho stressed the importance of safety education within the film industry to prevent such tragedies in the future.
