Junior Pope, whose real name is John Paul Odonwodo, tragically drowned while filming in Asaba, Delta State.

The Nigerian Actors Guild has decided to pause all film productions set in riverine areas and those featuring boat rides nationwide. This decision follows the tragic boat accident leading to the death of renowned actor Junior Pope, also known as John Paul Odonwodo, during filming in Asaba, Delta State.

In response, the Actors Guild of Nigeria issued a statement announcing the indefinite suspension of such productions, emphasizing the importance of safety measures. The incident occurred at River Niger Cable Point in Asaba on April 10, shortly after Junior Pope shared a video on Instagram depicting him riding a wooden boat without a life jacket for a scene in the movie 'The Other Side of Life'.

Junior Pope posted a video on Instagram where he is seen sitting in a speeding boat without a life jacket. "See me lamenting. The risk we take to entertain you. Crossing river 9ja yesterday with no life jacket. Na wahoooooo. Who does that?" Junior Pope captioned the video.

Additionally, the Actors Guild of Nigeria announced that the film production of ‘The Other Side of Life’ is suspended indefinitely.

The Actors Guild of Nigeria also issued a warning, stating that 'no actor is allowed to work with Adamma Luke as a producer until further notice'. Furthermore, the AGN announced that filming across the nation would be suspended on Thursday, April 11, 2024, in honor of the victims. As of now, there is no clarity on what caused the accident. "While we keep searching for the bodies of the remaining persons, may their souls rest in peace."

This incident adds to a series of deaths that have struck the Nigerian film industry this year. Nigeria’s popular comedian and actor John 'Mr. Ibu' Okafor passed away on March 2, while another veteran thespian, Amaechi Muonagor, died on March 24. Additionally, popular Nigerian film actress Saratu Gidado Daso died at the age of 56 on April 9, 2024.