A candlelight procession was organized by the Actors Guild of Nigeria in memory of the late Nollywood actors Zulu Adigwe, Amaechi Muonagor, and John Okafor—also referred to as “Mr. Ibu.”
Thespians, as well as admirers and friends of the departed veterans, assembled for the march at the Unity Fountain in Abuja on Monday night, according to the News Agency of Nigeria. Emeka Rollas, National President of the AGN, led the parade together with legendary performers Kenneth Okonkwo, Zack Orji, and Sidney Idiala.
The guests took turns honoring the dead heroes for their services to the Nigerian film industry in a moving show of respect and passion.
The purpose of the ceremony, according to Mercy Salma, FCT mayor of AGN, was to honor and pay tribute to the late performers’ lives and times.
“We should honor the memories and legacies of these Nollywood veterans who, throughout their lives, brought joy to Nigerians.”
“They have admirers from all over Africa and beyond, including both young and old Nigerians.”
She explained, “We want to show them how much we love and value their sacrifices and contributions to our industry and the country as a whole by holding this procession.”
In his statement, Emeka Rollas stated that the purpose of the parade was to honor the memory of the late thespians and to show the actors guild’s unity.
The candlelight service gave actors a chance to consider how they wanted to be remembered when their careers came to an end, according to the AGN helmsman.
We at the AGN are going through a difficult time right now; the loss of our three veteran members has left us all heartbroken.
However, as they say, the memory of someone you love becomes a treasure after they pass away.
“The lives of the late John Okafor, Amaechi Monaugor, and Zulu Adigwe were examples of brilliance and were meant to be emulated.”They also made an impact on society through their career and lived a life that burned so that others’ paths were lit.
We’re here today to honor them by remembering their incredible personalities as well as by deeply feeling and expressing our loss.
“They all had distinct and important roles in our lives as well as in the acting industry, and many of us considered them to be devoted friends and coworkers.
“We honor these guys today as we remember memorable times; they were examples of what a good person can be—caring and loving fathers to their children, friends, and coworkers.
Our hearts and prayers are with their families during this extremely trying time. They worked with passion, honesty, and enthusiasm throughout their acting careers, giving it their all,” the speaker concluded.
Leading Nollywood actor Kenneth Okonkwo, on his part, claimed that the Nigerian film industry was a fan favorite in part because of their dedication to their craft.
He said that the reason they reached the pinnacle of success and left enduring impressions was because they were passionate about entering the field.
In order for new artists to succeed in the business, he advised them to put their attention on providing value rather than chasing after fast money. As one of the first performers in the business, I had a personal relationship with every actor who arrived in Nollywood at the time, and I can attest to the fact that they were all motivated by a love of performing.
“Regardless of their current location, we ought to acknowledge and value their contributions to the expansion and advancement of our sector,” he declared.
According to NAN, prayers for Nigeria, the Nollywood industry, and the deceased’s souls’ resting places were the event’s high point.
