Chukwuma Soludo, the governor of Anambra state, has mourned Junior Pope and the crew members involved in the fatal boat accident.
The actor and some crew members died on Wednesday after their boat capsized inside River Niger in Asaba, Delta state on their way to a movie location.
In a statement signed by Christain Aburime, the press secretary to the governor, Soludo commiserated with the families of the victims over what he described as a “painful loss”.
The governor also “expressed deep regrets” that talented, promising, young Nigerians like Junior Pope and others lost their lives in such “unfortunate circumstances”.
He also prayed for their souls to rest in peace and hoped that their families, friends and colleagues find solace in their cherished memories.
Soludo further advised other Nollywood practitioners to always comply with necessary water safety precautions in order to safeguard their lives.
He said the incident has brought to light the significance of implementing fundamental safety measures in water transportation in Nigeria.
“These include the acquisition of life jackets, employment of lifeguards, and provision of first aid such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to individuals in distress,” he said.
He also expressed his full support for the development of the creative entertainment industry.
Earlier, Hannatu Musawa, the minister of art, culture, and the creative economy, mourned Junior Pope, and Saratu Gidado, the Kannywood actress who passed away earlier in the week.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) also suspended all movies involving riverine locations, following the death of Pope.
The AGN also set up a committee to improve the safety of its members.
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