Nollywood actress and filmmaker Adanma Luke has publicly apologized for the tragic incident that claimed the lives of actor Junior Pope and four crew members during the production of her film, The Other Side of Life. The incident occurred on April 10, 2024, when their boat capsized in the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State, as they were on their way to a movie location.
In a heartfelt and tearful video that has since gone viral on social media, Adanma Luke expressed her profound sorrow and took full responsibility for the tragedy. Fighting back tears, she acknowledged the pain and suffering caused by the incident and pleaded for forgiveness from Nigerians.
“I have come to say I’m sorry. I’m sorry, Nigerians. I took away your loved ones from what people are saying. I’m so sad that this happened on my movie set. In as much as I’m trying to be very strong, I’m not seeing myself to be strong,” she said, visibly emotional in the video shared on Monday.
Adanma Luke continued, “I’m so sad that they had to work for me when the incident happened. But I’m not God. It was destined to happen. A lot of people have been dragging me. Nigerians, I’m not okay again. I don’t know what is happening to me. I didn’t plan what happened to Junior Pope and the crew members. Please forgive me.”
The tragic event has sparked widespread mourning and criticism within the Nollywood community and beyond, with many questioning the safety measures on film sets, especially during risky shoots like the one that led to the fatal accident.
The Other Side of Life, which was being produced by Adanma Luke and starred Junior Pope in a leading role, has become synonymous with the devastating loss suffered by the Nigerian film industry. The actress’s apology has struck a chord with many Nigerians, as she continues to navigate the overwhelming grief and responsibility that has followed in the aftermath of the incident.
As the industry reflects on this heartbreaking event, the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety protocols in filmmaking, particularly in challenging and unpredictable environments like the River Niger.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
