Patience Ozokwo, Nkem Owoh lead candle night procession for Peace Anyiam-Osigwe

The Nigerian movie industry executives held a candle night in honour of Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, the late founder of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).

The event was organised in Enugu on Tuesday by the actress Patience Ozokwo with many producers in attendance.

The procession started at Okpara Square, Enugu, and ended at Golden Valley Lounge at the Independence Layout.

The film executives prayed and paid tributes to the late film industry personality.

Anyiam-Osigwe died on January 10, but the family did not disclose the cause of her death.

Speaking at the event, Ozokwo said the candle night was their own little way of appreciating Anyiam-Osigwe for her outstanding work in the movie industry.

She described Anyiam-Osigwe as “a great woman, so organised, articulate and a kind-hearted person”.

Ozokwo added that many Nollywood actors and actresses were lifted through her generosity.

“Her interest is to take others where never dreamt of, including older persons who had not achieved a lot in the industry,” the film star said.

“When I heard of her demise, I was shocked because we are like sisters but in all, I thank God for a life well spent.

“I said she cannot be buried without doing something like this for her.”

Nkem Owoh, another ace movie star, said Anyiam-Osigwe was a different woman in the movie industry.

He added that the impact she created in the industry would not die.

“I have great respect for her works through AMAA,” Owoh added.

“Peace Anyiam-Osigwe is irreplaceable and her contributions to the movie industry can never be erased.”

At the event, Johnpaul Nwanganga, the chairman of the Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria (AMPN) in Enugu, described Anyiam-Osigwe as a friend, mother, and teacher.

“We will immortalize her by keeping and building on those legacies she left behind,” Nwanganga said.