The family of late Nollywood star, John Paul Obumneme Odonwodo popularly known by his stage name, Junior Pope, has formally reacted to the sudden demise of their son, saying the circumstances of his death was “wholly avoidable.”
Junior Pope died in a boat mishap on Wednesday, 10th April, 2024 while going to movie set.
A statement issued by Dr Divine Odonwodo on behalf of the family said the funeral arrangements will be announced soon, while the relevant authorities continue with their investigations into the unfortunate incident.
Dr. Odonwodo also appealed to the public to give the family privacy “as we grieve and mourn this irreparable loss.”
The three-paragraph statement reads:
“We regret to announce the sudden death of our son, brother, husband, friend and very well loved Nollywood movie star, John Paul Obumneme Odonwodo (Junior Pope). This wholly avoidable tragedy took place on the 10th of April, 2024 at Asaba Delta State.
“Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family. While the authorities investigate the circumstances leading to this unfortunate event, the family asks for privacy as we grieve and mourn this irreparable loss.
May his beautiful soul and the souls of all the victims of the boat accident rest in peace. Amen”
Born on May 7, 1984, in Bamenda, Cameroon, Pope Obumneme Odonwodo, widely recognized as Junior Pope, is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Luke Odonwodo, belong to the Ukehe tribe in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State South East Nigeria. After spending his formative years in Cameroon, Junior Pope completed his primary and secondary education before later relocating to Nigeria.
Junior Pope’s upbringing in Cameroon provided him with a diverse cultural background and experiences that influenced his personal and professional life.
After completing his education in Cameroon, he made the transition to Nigeria, where he embarked on his journey in the entertainment industry. His multicultural upbringing serves as a significant aspect of his identity and has contributed to shaping his perspective as an actor and public figure.
After completing his college education, Junior Pope attended the University of Nigeria Nsukka in Enugu State, where he graduated with a degree in Accountancy.