Nollywood stars are once again in mourning following the passing of Luke Odonwodo, father of the late actor John Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Junior Pope’s widow, Jennifer Odonwodo, who revealed via Instagram that her father-in-law died last month. He was in his 80s.
In a heartfelt tribute, Jennifer described Mr Odonwodo as a devoted father figure who lived a fulfilled life, cared deeply for his family, and reaped the fruits of his sacrifices.
“Barely one month ago, I was with you in Enugu,” she wrote. “Some days later, my mother-in-law called and said her husband had gone to meet my husband. I screamed… Ozor Luke Odonwodo genuinely loved me, and I’m thankful for the time I spent with him, even unknowingly in his final days.”
She prayed for strength for the family to endure the double loss, adding, “Adieu father and son. You are sorely missed, but we hold on to the resurrection promises in John 5:28-29 and Acts 24:15.”
Junior Pope tragically died in a boat accident on April 10, 2024, while on his way to a movie location in Asaba, Delta State. Four other crew members also lost their lives in the incident.
Reacting to Jennifer’s tribute, several Nollywood stars expressed condolences. Actress Destiny Etiko wrote, “Chai. Take heart my woman,” while Nzube Onyia said, “The Lord is your strength, Jay dear.” Sonia Ogene added, “Oh chai it is well,” and Benson Okonkwo commented, “Stay strong dear.”
The Odonwodo family has now suffered the loss of both father and son within a short time, deepening the grief across the Nollywood community.
