The Nigerian entertainment industry is in mourning following the tragic loss of two prominent figures.
Popular Nollywood actor, Junior Pope Odonwodo, and veteran Hausa-language film actress, Saratu Gidado, have both been confirmed dead, sending shockwaves through their respective industries.
The news of Junior Pope Odonwodo’s passing was confirmed during a live Instagram video on Wednesday night by movie producer Stanley Nwoke, who had been with the actor throughout the incident.
Nwoke somberly announced that three doctors from different hospitals had pronounced Pope dead after fighting for his life for hours.
The actor’s death came after a tragic incident where his boat capsized while attempting to cross the River Niger in Anambra State to shoot a film.
Despite efforts to save him, Junior Pope’s life could not be spared, leaving the Nollywood community in mourning.
Contrary to earlier reports of Junior Pope’s passing, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Rollas, clarified the situation, stating that the actor is alive and currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
The conflicting reports had caused confusion and concern among fans and colleagues alike.
In a separate development, the Hausa-language film industry, Kannywood, is also grieving the loss of veteran actress Saratu Gidado, known affectionately as Daso.
Her passing was confirmed by relatives to Freedom Radio on Tuesday, revealing that the beloved actress was found dead early in the morning.
Gidado, who was observing the Ramadan fast, had reportedly returned to bed after the pre-dawn meal, Sahur, only to be discovered lifeless later, marking a somber day for Kannywood and the wider Nigerian film community.
The loss of Junior Pope Odonwodo and Saratu Gidado has cast a pall over the Nigerian entertainment industry, with colleagues, fans, and admirers expressing their condolences and fond memories of the departed actors.
