Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has mourned the passing of Nollywood actor, Pope Obumneme Odonwodo, also known as Junior Pope, characterizing it as a significant blow to Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Mr. Obi expressed his disbelief at the actor’s sudden demise and emphasized the vibrant talent Junior Pope possessed, which promised a bright future. He extended heartfelt condolences to the actor’s family, fans, and all Nigerians, praying for them to find solace during this trying period.
In a concise statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the former Anambra State governor conveyed his sympathies to the late actor’s family and others impacted by the tragic boat accident.
He remarked,
“I am shocked by the reports of the death of yet another vibrant Nollywood actor, Pope Obumneme Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope. Our entertainment industry, and indeed our dear nation, is once again thrown into mourning, by the death of this young talented actor.
“His death is yet another great loss to the entertainment industry which has in recent years risen to become a most vibrant sector of our social and economic life. I am even more saddened to imagine the pain and agony of the families they have just left behind.
“Death is a very painful experience, but the death of a young one with a promising future is even more devastating. I sincerely commiserate with his family and the families of others who also lost their lives in the boat accident.
“I also condole with the Actors Guild of Nigeria, and the entire entertainment industry. May God give them, and all of us, the fortitude to bear this sad irreplaceable loss, and grant eternal rest to the dead. ”
