The Actors Guild of Nigeria has organised a candlelight service to pay tribute to the late Nollywood actors John Okafor, popularly known as ‘Mr. Ibu,’ Amaechi Muonagor and Zulu Adigwe.
The thespians, along with fans and friends of the late veterans, gathered for the procession at the Unity Fountain on Friday night in Abuja.
The procession was led by the National President of the AGN, Emeka Rollas, along with veteran actors such as Kenneth Okonkwo, Zack Orji, and Sidney Idiala, among others.
In a heartfelt display of respect and emotion, the attendees took turns paying tributes to the fallen heroes for their contributions to the Nigerian film industry.
The FCT mayor of AGN, Mercy Salma, said the event was to show appreciation and honour for the lives and times of the late actors.
She stated, “These are Nollywood veterans that put smiles on the faces of Nigerians during their lifetimes, so we should celebrate their legacies and memories. They have both the young and the old Nigerians, and even across Africa and beyond, as their fans. So this procession is to show that we love them and appreciate their sacrifices and contributions to our industry and the nation at large.’’
In his speech, Mr Rollas said that the procession was to demonstrate the solidarity that existed in the actor guild and to reflect on the moments they shared with the late thespians.
According to the AGN helmsman, the candlelight was also an occasion for actors to reflect on how they wanted to be remembered at the end of their works.
He said, “This is a season of sorrow for us at the AGN; our hearts are filled with grief over the loss of our three veteran members. But as the saying goes, when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
“The late John Okafor, Amaechi Monaugor and Zulu Adigwe led lives that exemplified brilliance and inspired emulation. They also led a life that burned so that others’ paths were lit, and they made an impact on society through their profession. Today we are here to honour them, not only by profoundly feeling and expressing our loss but also to remember their amazing personalities. They all played unique and special roles in all of our lives and the acting profession and they were loyal colleagues and special friends to many of us.
“Today, we honour these men as we recall special moments; they were living proof of how fine a person can be, caring hearts to their friends and colleagues, loving and devoted fathers to their children. They gave their all in their acting careers as they worked with passion, integrity and energy, and our hearts and prayers are with their families at this most difficult time.’’
On his part, the foremost Nollywood actor, Kenneth Okonkwo, said that their commitment to their profession was part of what made the Nigerian film industry a toast to fans.
According to him, they were driven by passion to join the industry, which is why they rose to their peak and made indelible marks.
He urged young artists to focus on value delivery and shun the rush for quick monetary gains so they could make their marks in the industry.
He stated, “As one of the pioneer actors in the industry, I was personally connected to each of them that came to Nollywood at the time. I can tell you that they were all driven by passion for acting. Wherever they are today, we should appreciate what they have contributed towards the growth and development of our industry.’’
The high point of the event was prayers for the repose of the departed souls and for the Nollywood industry, as well as prayers for Nigeria.
