Nollywood Filmmaker Ruth Kadiri & Actor Chidi Dike Speak to BBC about Industry Safety Concerns

In an interview with BBC, Nollywood filmmaker Ruth Kadiri and actor Chidi Dike shared their insights on the industry’s safety record following the tragic death of actor Junior Pope.

In April, Junior Pope, a prominent Nollywood star who had featured in over a hundred Nigerian-produced films, lost his life in a boat crash while being transported from a film set. His untimely death has prompted a serious discussion among industry professionals about the safety measures in place within Nollywood.

Ruth Kadiri, an actor and screenwriter who knew Junior Pope, recounted her experiences with dangerous moviemaking situations. She emphasized the need for improved safety protocols to protect industry workers. Kadiri highlighted various incidents where safety was compromised and called for immediate reforms to prevent further tragedies.

Chidi Dike, a rising star in the industry, discussed how Junior Pope’s death has served as a wake-up call for Nollywood. He noted a growing awareness and push for better safety standards on film sets. Dike expressed optimism about the industry’s potential to evolve and ensure a safer working environment for all involved.