Tensions are rising in the Nigerian entertainment industry, following the death of three people between Thursday and Friday.
First was the death of music sensation, Goldie Harvey, the circumstances of which continue to rattle her colleagues, fans and other Nigerians, especially with other revelations that have so far followed her death.
Goldie died shortly after arriving the country from the United States of America, where she was guest at last Sunday’s Grammy Awards.
Just a few hours after her death, there were reports of the death of Nollywood actor and former Secretary of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lagos branch, Lugard Onoyemu, who slumped and died at the National Stadium in Surulere, where he was participating in a routine exercise.
Confirming the news, Emeka Rising, chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the AGN disclosed that the deceased was rushed to the hospital after slumping at about 5.30 pm but efforts to save his life proved abortive.
According to sources, the deceased had been battling a heart-related ailment. His corpse was deposited at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
While Onoyemu and Goldie were still being mourned, the industry was again hit by the death of popular Abuja-based actor, director and producer, Collins Ifeanyi Chukwu. His death occurred on Friday at the Maitama General Hospital after a brief illness.
Until his death, Chukwu was the Public Relations Officer-elect of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abuja chapter.
Confirming the news of Chukwu who was survived by his wife, Blessing Collins, and little son, Doxa Efechukwu Collins, Chairman of the guild in Abuja, Agility Onwurah said the industry was mourning.
Doxa Efechukwu Collins, his only child, was born less than a year ago on May 12, 2012, and was dedicated on Sunday July 22 at the Christ Chosen Church of God, Gwarimpa, Abuja, with a big celebration at their Jikwoyi residence.
Chairman of the Producers Guild of Nigeria, Abuja Chapter, Frank White, while reacting to Chukwu’s death, described the incident as unfortunate, lamenting that Chukwu’s wife had been widowed at an early stage of her life.
“This is a big loss,” he said, “not only to the family but to the entertainment industry in Abuj.”
Movies to his credit include The Burning Flames, el-Gibor and Back to Bethel.
