
In the wake of the tragic death of prominent Nigerian actor Junior Pope, Anne Nnebedum, a former worker within the Asaba film sector, has taken to social media to shed light on what she describes as perilous and reckless practices on movie sets in the industry. Nnebedum’s revelations have sparked widespread concern and unease among netizens, highlighting a culture of negligence that she says ultimately compelled her to leave her position due to the toll it took on her mental health.
Detailing her experiences, Nnebedum disclosed that actors are often placed in extreme situations without proper safety measures. She recounted instances where actresses were required to perform with live snakes, allegedly controlled by charms, and fight scenes that were dangerously authentic, risking the performers' well-being.
The use of poisonous snakes and the execution of fire scenes without basic safety precautions like fire extinguishers were among the specific examples she cited. Nnebedum criticized the industry's reliance on traditional beliefs over tangible safety protocols, emphasizing the alienation she faced when voicing concerns over these practices.
Moreover, Nnebedum highlighted the industry's disregard for environmental dangers, mentioning shoots conducted in unvetted rivers with the naive assurance of safety provided by local witch doctors. Her account suggests a disturbing prioritization of cost-saving over crew and cast safety, a practice she outright condemned.
Nnebedum's post also touched upon more sinister aspects of the industry, including the exploitation and mistreatment of up-and-coming and underage actresses. She insinuated that the death of Junior Pope has cast a spotlight on issues that would otherwise remain concealed, lamenting the loss of life and the broader implications for safety and ethics in the Asaba and broader Nigerian film industry.
Her allegations have ignited a conversation about the need for rigorous safety standards and ethical reforms within Nollywood, particularly in regional sectors known for their fast-paced and budget-conscious production schedules. As the industry mourns the loss of Junior Pope, Nnebedum's revelations call for a critical evaluation of practices and the protection of those who bring Nigerian stories to life on screen.



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