New findings have emerged that contradict earlier reports about Nollywood actor John Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, and the tragic boat accident on April 10 at the Anam River in Anambra State. Contrary to viral stories, it has been confirmed that Junior Pope did not turn down a life jacket, as he was never offered one.
Prince Uvo Kevin Oghogho, Chairman of the committee established by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) to investigate the accident, clarified that no life jacket was provided to the late actor by the boat operators. “No life jacket was provided to the late actor,” Oghogho stated, emphasizing that only the Director of Photography and the Sound Engineer had life jackets, which they had hired themselves.
Oghogho revealed in an interview with a Vanguard reporter that the boat operators only produced new life jackets after the accident occurred, despite not having made them available to passengers previously.
Providing details on the incident, Oghogho recounted, “The outboard engine fibre boat, carrying the cast and crew of a movie produced by Adamma Luke, departed Asaba jetty heading to Ononno jetty. Around 12:30 pm, Junior Pope was making a video while his colleagues were having fun. The boat driver, distracted by the scene, crashed into a local fishing canoe, causing the speed boat to capsize and throw all occupants into the Anam River. Five passengers died on the spot, while seven were rescued alive.”
Oghogho also dismissed rumors that Junior Pope was killed and then thrown into the river, noting that another victim also bled from the nose. He added that the marine police doctor who recovered the bodies performed CPR and confirmed the deaths on-site before taking them to the morgue in Asaba.
The committee’s report, presented to the AGN National Executive Council in Lagos, recommended that the Ministry of Transportation or the Inland Waterways mandate the provision of life jackets for all passengers before boarding any water transportation. Oghogho stressed the importance of educating colleagues on safety measures, as the industry often involves risk-taking.
Junior Pope’s funeral was held in his hometown, Ukehe, in Nsukka, Igboetiti Local Government Area of Enugu State.
News Editor