The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has clarified why it couldn’t pursue legal action against filmmaker Adanma Luke following the tragic death of actor Junior Pope and other crew members. The incident occurred on April 10 when a boat transporting them to a movie location capsized.
Adanma Luke was initially suspended for breaching safety protocols, and the Guild implemented a temporary ban on films involving riverine locations. However, by August, the suspension was lifted. Despite initial plans to sue, AGN President Emeka Rollas explained during an interview on Arise TV that the Guild lacked the legal standing to take action.
“Our legal adviser stated that the AGN does not have the locus to sue based on the contract Junior Pope signed with the producer. Only the direct family or the wife can pursue legal action,” Rollas said.
He further revealed that Junior Pope was not an active dues-paying member of the Guild at the time of his death, which limited AGN’s involvement. Rollas emphasized the need for industry reform, including licensing actors and ensuring they receive proper financial support and protections such as royalties and residuals.
“You see big names, but when they fall sick, they don’t get any help because their financial remuneration from the work they do does not extend to royalties,” he added, calling for a restructuring of the entertainment industry to safeguard its members.
