Emeka Rollas, President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), has established a committee to bolster the safety and well-being of its members, in response to a tragic boat accident that claimed the lives of five film practitioners, including renowned actor Junior Pope.
The Guild announced this initiative in a statement shared on its Instagram page, signed by Director of Communications, Kate Henshaw, on Saturday.
Rollas emphasized the need for action, stating, “Following the recent fatal boat mishap on the River Niger which claimed the lives of five film practitioners… the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Dr. Ejezie Emeka Rollas, has set up a special committee.”
The statement outlined the committee’s objectives, including refining existing bye-laws to prioritize member welfare and safety, coordinating with relevant associations for implementation, and recommending disciplinary measures for misconduct.
The committee, led by veteran actor Emeka Ike with Jude Orhorha as secretary, comprises industry stalwarts like Joke Silva, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, and Francis Duru.
Tragically, Junior Pope and four crew members lost their lives when their boat capsized on the River Niger while returning from a film shoot.
In response, the AGN temporarily prohibited shooting in riverine areas and participating in boat rides to prevent future accidents.