AGN President Confirms Death of Nollywood Actor Jr Pope

The tragic news of Nollywood actor Obumneme Odonwodo, popularly known as Jr Pope, has been confirmed by the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Rollas Ejezie. The confirmation came through a social media post on Wednesday, 11 April, after earlier claims suggested that the actor was still alive following widespread rumors of his demise.

The initial optimism expressed by Mr. Rollas, based on hopeful signs of recovery, was dashed as he later revealed that despite extensive efforts by two prominent hospitals, Jr Pope could not be revived. The loss has deeply affected the Nollywood community and fans who had held onto hope for the actor’s recovery.

Jr Pope’s death was initially rumored after a boating accident on the River Niger, where he and several crew members were reported to have drowned. Subsequent rumors suggested a miraculous survival when taken to the mortuary, but the latest update from the AGN president has put those rumors to rest.

The accident also claimed the lives of four other crew members, with Mr. Friday’s body identified so far. The search for the remaining individuals continues.

In light of the tragedy, the AGN has taken several actions to honor the lost lives and ensure the safety of its members. All film productions involving riverine areas and boat riding have been suspended until further notice. Additionally, a nationwide halt on all film shooting activities has been declared for Thursday, 11 April 2024.

The film “Another Side of Life,” which Jr Pope and the other deceased crew members were involved in, has been indefinitely suspended. The AGN has also placed a temporary ban on collaborations with producer Adamma Luke while the search for the missing persons is ongoing.

Jr Pope’s final message on social media, posted on the day of the accident, reflected on the risks actors take to entertain their audience. He shared his concerns about crossing the River Niger without a life jacket and his responsibilities as a father to his three children.

Remembering Jr Pope

Jr Pope, originally from Ukehe, Enugu State, was the sixth of eight children born in Bamenda, Cameroon. His family had moved there during the Nigerian Civil War. After completing his primary and secondary education in Cameroon, Jr Pope returned to Nigeria for his university studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned a degree in Accounting. Despite his academic background, his passion for acting led him to the Nollywood industry in 2006, where he quickly made a name for himself.

He gained widespread recognition in 2007 with his role in “Secret Adventures,” directed by Tchidi Chikere. Over the years, Jr Pope became known for his versatility, often portraying antagonistic characters such as criminals, villains, and hitmen. His talent earned him the award for Most Promising Nollywood Actor in 2010 from the Entertainment Factory Awards.

Jr Pope’s personal life was as fulfilling as his professional one. In 2014, he married Jennifer Awele, whom he met on Facebook, and together they had three boys. In 2021, he expressed gratitude for his family’s safety following a fire incident at their home.