The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has released new information regarding the recent boat accident that tragically claimed the life of Nollywood actor, John Paul Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope. According to NIWA, a total of 12 individuals were on board the ill-fated boat.
NIWA has confirmed that seven people were rescued from the scene, while the bodies of two victims have been recovered. However, the search is still ongoing for three individuals who remain missing.
Contrary to initial reports, the incident took place in the outskirts of Onitsha, specifically in the Akpaka Area and Nsugbe of Anambra East local government area, rather than Anam as previously stated.
Suleiman Nicholas, the Area Manager of NIWA, issued a statement informing the public that their rescue and recovery efforts are underway. NIWA, alongside the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria and the Marine Police, are currently working on the scene to locate and assist the missing victims.
In terms of the cause of the accident, Nicholas emphasized that any speculations at this point may not be accurate. The report detailing the exact cause of the incident is still pending, as their team is currently on the water conducting further investigations.
Regarding the identity of the deceased victims, when asked about actor Junior Pope’s involvement, the NIWA Area Manager stated that his team had confirmed the actor’s unfortunate demise.
As the search for the missing individuals continues, NIWA urges the public to await further updates and refrain from spreading unverified information regarding the incident.
●Source: Gossipmillnaija @ IG
