Tragedy strikes the Nigerian film industry once again, as the untimely demise of renowned actress Cynthia Okereke sends shockwaves through Nollywood.
Joseph Okechukwu, a fellow actor, broke the heartbreaking news on his official Twitter account on Wednesday. Alongside a poignant photograph of the late actress, Okechukwu wrote, “REST IN PEACE, Nwanyi oma. I’m shattered beyond words. Learning that you had departed to be with the Lord just last night, right when I was about to purchase your flight ticket to complete our unfinished project, is one of the most challenging things I’ve had to face recently.”
Struggling to comprehend the sudden loss, he continued, “I pray that I can recover from this profound shock. Life is but a fleeting mist; one moment it’s here, the next it vanishes. Over the past two decades of knowing you, you have radiated incredible kindness, decency, and loveliness.”
“I never anticipated such an unceremonious exit from you. Words fail me. Sleep on, Cynthia. May your gentle soul rest until we meet again in glory.”
Last year, Okereke experienced the harrowing ordeal of being kidnapped in Enugu alongside fellow actor Clemson Cornel. Fortunately, they were released unharmed by their captors days after their disappearance.
Okereke’s passing is yet another blow to the Nigerian film industry, which has recently mourned the loss of several notable figures. Saint Obi, Don Brymo, Murphy Afolabi, Femi Ogunrobi, Ada Ameh, Rachael Oniga and Chikezie Uwazie are just a few of the prominent names that have departed in recent times. The industry continues to lose these beloved veterans, robbing audiences of their immense talent due to health-related issues.
It is disheartening to observe that many actors neglect their health, and even some unscrupulous directors fail to prioritize the well-being of their performers. Actors are often overworked, forced to shoot numerous scenes in a single day without sufficient time to rest and recuperate.
In early February of this year, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) partnered with Universal Insurance Plc to emphasize the importance of insurance and good health among its members. The AGN Health and Wellness Week 2023, titled ‘Walk for Life,’ was held in Lagos, Abuja, Asaba, and Enugu State to raise awareness about these issues.
During the Lagos event, Ejezie Emeka Rollas, President of the AGN, stressed the vital significance of maintaining good health. He stated, “There is nothing more important than health for any human being. Hence, we introduced a special retail Health Management Scheme, HMO with MEDICARD Ltd, in 2020. We have already enrolled some underprivileged members in the scheme.”
Rollas went on to mention the partnership with Universal Insurance, which provides group on-set coverage for members in case of health emergencies. Additionally, attractive welfare packages have been implemented for members. However, the indifferent and lackadaisical attitude towards these welfare initiatives, including health concerns, is deeply disheartening.
The initiative taken by the AGN is commendable, and it should be further developed and strengthened. All AGN members should register for the program, and extensive awareness campaigns should be conducted. Essential medical equipment, such as blood pressure monitors and blood sugar level machines, should be readily available on sets, and every adult involved should undergo regular medical check-ups administered by healthcare professionals. Actors must also be given adequate time to rest while on set, avoiding the dangers of overwork.
While it is true that death remains an enigma beyond our comprehension and control, it is important to take whatever measures we can to protect the lives of actors.
What is your opinion on how the health of actors in Nigeria can be safeguarded?
