The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has revealed that a total of 12 individuals were aboard during the tragic boat accident that claimed the life of Nollywood actor, John Paul Odonwodo, also known as Junior Pope. According to NIWA, seven people were rescued, two were discovered deceased, and three individuals remain unaccounted for.

Contrary to initial reports suggesting the accident occurred in Anam, Anambra West Local Government Area, NIWA clarified that it took place in the outskirts of Onitsha, specifically in the Akpaka Area and Nsugbe of Anambra East local government area.

Suleiman Nicholas, the Area Manager of NIWA, stated that rescue and recovery efforts are underway at the scene of the incident, with assistance from the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria and Marine Police. Nicholas emphasized that the exact cause of the mishap is yet to be determined, pending a comprehensive report from the personnel at the site.

When asked about the status of actor Junior Pope, Nicholas indicated that their team reported him as one of the deceased victims.