The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said it has commenced investigations into the fatal boat accident that claimed the lives of movie stars who were on their way to a shooting location on the Anam River in Anambra state on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.
Reports indicated that the tragic incident involved a commercial speedboat and a fishing canoe as the boat carrying twelve film crew members and a boat operator reportedly crashed into the canoe, resulting in the loss of five lives.
Among the deceased was popular Nollywood actor, Mr. Paul Odonwodo, known professionally as Junior Pope, Ms. Abigail Frederick, Mr. Precious Oforum, and Mr. Joseph Anointing.
In an electronic statement, the Nigerian accident investigation body said “The NSIB extends its deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this heartbreaking accident.”
The document quoted the director general of NSIB,
Captain Alex Badeh Jr. as saying: “We share in your grief and we are fully committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of this tragedy and prevent similar occurrences in the future.”
It noted that an investigation team has been dispatched to the accident site and inquiry has begun while the investigation scope includes, but not limited to examination of the wreckage from both vessels involved in the collision.