One year after the heartbreaking loss of Nollywood actor John Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Jnr Pope, and four other crew members, the Nigerian film industry has come together in solemn remembrance.


On April 10, 2024, tragedy struck when Jnr Pope and his colleagues lost their lives in a boat accident while en route to a movie location. The boat reportedly capsized, claiming the lives of five individuals: Jnr Pope, Abigail, Olanti, Friday, and Precious.


To honor their memory, a memorial service was held on April 10, 2025, at St. Johnbosco Catholic Church in Asaba, Delta State. Filmmaker Stanley Ontop shared emotional moments from the service on Instagram, posting images and videos that captured the somber mood of the gathering.


Attendees, dressed in black as a symbol of mourning, gathered for prayers and reflection. In the shared video, mourners were seen deep in prayer, paying heartfelt tribute to their fallen colleagues.


Stanley Ontop’s caption read:

“Live at Junior Pope and others’ memorial service happening now in Asaba. St. Johnbosco Catholic Church, Asaba. Nollywood, in their numbers, came out to honor their own.

I pray God gives JP, Abigail, Olanti, Friday, and Precious eternal rest. Amen 🙏 Till we meet again 💔😭 It’s well.”


The industry continues to mourn the loss of these talents, whose memories live on through their work and the love of their colleagues, fans, and families.