The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has clarified its inability to pursue legal action against actress Adanma Luke regarding the tragic death of actor Pope Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope.
According to the guild, legal and membership limitations prevent it from initiating a lawsuit, leaving the responsibility to the late actor’s family or wife.
Junior Pope and four crew members lost their lives on April 10, 2024, when their boat capsized on the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State, during the production of The Other Side of Life, produced by Adanma Luke.
Following the incident, Luke faced suspension from the guild, which was lifted in August.
Speaking on Arise TV, AGN President Emeka Rollas explained that the guild’s legal adviser reviewed the actor’s contract and determined that only Junior Pope’s direct family or wife had the standing to file a lawsuit.
Rollas further disclosed that Junior Pope’s status as a non-due-paying member barred him from receiving guild benefits.
“From the contract that Junior Pope signed with the producer, the AGN did not have the locum to sue. Either the direct family or the wife should sue the producer,” Rollas stated.
The AGN president also highlighted ongoing efforts to restructure the guild, including introducing licensing for actors to address gaps in member contributions and contractual obligations.
Rollas emphasized the importance of improving organizational standards to prevent similar challenges in the future.
