By Akinwale Kasali
Having lost over three of its Veteran Actors and Actress in 2024, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, held a Candle Night Procession to pay tributes to their late colleagues at Unity Fountain Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, the Nation’s Capital.
Those honoured at the auspicious event were: John Okafor, popularly known as ‘Mr Ibu’, Amaechi Muonagor and Zulu Adigwe.
The procession was led by Emeka Rollas, National President of the AGN, alongside veteran actors Kenneth Okonkwo, Zack Orji, and Sidney Idiala, amongst others.
Emeka Rollas said the procession was to demonstrate the solidarity that exists in the actors guild and to reflect on the moments they shared with the late thespians, adding that the candlelight service was also an occasion for actors to reflect on how they want 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 lived a life that exemplified brilliance and inspired emulation.
“They also lived a life that burned so that others’ paths were lit, and they made 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 father 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.”
Actor Kenneth Okonkwo said their commitment to their profession was part of what made the Nigerian film industry a toast of fans.
The AGN also used the opportunity to pray against recurring death in the industry, that has seen over Nine persons bid the world farewell.
The Nollywood industry has been throwing into mourning on several occasions this Year alone both in the Yoruba Genre, Kannywood and Nollywood as a whole.
