Nollywood mourns again as Luke Odonwodo, father of the late actor Junior Pope, passes away, just a year after his son’s tragic death

The Nigerian film industry is once more shrouded in sadness as news breaks of the passing of Luke Odonwodo, the father of the late beloved actor John Paul Odonwodo, widely known as Junior Pope.

Also read: Junior Pope’s wife pens heartfelt tribute on his posthumous 45th birthday

Mr. Odonwodo, who was in his 80s, died last month, a year after his son’s tragic demise in a boat accident.

The heartbreaking announcement was made on Wednesday by Junior Pope’s widow, Jennifer Odonwodo, in an emotional Instagram post.

She paid tribute to her father-in-law, describing him as a caring and devoted father figure who “lived a good life,” always put his loved ones first, and ultimately enjoyed the fruits of his hard work.

Jennifer’s post highlighted the profound grief her family is enduring, losing both father and son in such a short span. “Barely one month ago, I was with you in Enugu,” she wrote, recounting a recent visit.

Adieu father and son. You are sorely missed, but we hold onto the resurrection promises.

The shock of the news was palpable: “Some days later, Reme (my mother-in-law) called, asked how I and her boys were doing, and then said that her husband had gone to meet my husband.”

She expressed her deep affection for Luke Odonwodo: “Ozor Luke Odonwodo is one man that genuinely loved me, and I’m so thankful I got to spend time with him even though short unknowingly in his last days.”

Jennifer concluded her poignant message with a prayer for strength for her family and a heartfelt farewell to both men: “Adieu father and son. You are sorely missed, but we hold onto the resurrection promises in John 5:28-29 and Acts 24:15.”

The Nollywood community has rallied around Jennifer and the Odonwodo family, offering an outpouring of condolences.

Veteran actress Destiny Etiko wrote, “Chai. Take heart my woman.” Nzube Onyia shared words of encouragement: “The Lord is your strength, Jay dear.” Actress Sonia Ogene commented, “Oh chai it is well, my condolences,” while actor Benson Okonkwo simply reacted with, “Stay strong dear.”

Luke Odonwodo’s death follows the devastating boat accident on April 10, 2024, on the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State, which claimed the life of Junior Pope and four other crew members who were on their way to a movie location.