Tears flowed freely on Friday, May 17, in Uwala Abaka village, Ukehe town, Igbo-Etiti local government area of Enugu State, as the remains of actor John Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, were laid to rest.

The burial rites began with a lying-in-state in the morning at his father’s compound, where family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers had a final glimpse of the late actor.

The body was then taken to St. Peter’s Catholic Parish, Ukehe, for a commendation mass.

Around 1:30 pm, the corpse was moved to a private venue for interment.

The atmosphere at the ceremony was sombre, as colleagues and fans gathered to pay their final respects to the late actor.

The late actor’s wife, Jennifer Awele, could not hold back tears as she was seen weeping profusely at the commencement of the final funeral procession.

The late actor, who tragically lost his life in a boat accident, was honoured with a touching funeral service that paid tribute to his life, work, and the joy he brought to so many through his performances.

As mourners gathered at St. Peter’s Catholic Parish, memories of Junior Pope’s warmth, talent, and dedication were shared, and his contributions to the world of Nigerian cinema were celebrated.

The 43-year-old actor died alongside four other people on April 10, after their boat capsized in the Anam River, in Anambra state, while returning from a movie shoot.

Speaking at the burial ceremony, veteran actress Rita Edochie said that she was heartbroken when she heard the sad news of Junior Pope’s death.

Former president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Nnia Nwodo, who hails from the town, was among the top dignitaries that graced the funeral ceremony.