- James Akaie, a special effects technician, died in an explosion during the filming of a Nollywood movie in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
- The film’s producer and director, James Abinibi, confirmed the incident in a statement on Instagram.
- Abinibi called the incident a devastating loss for the entire cast and crew.
Nollywood Film Production Company has confirmed the death of special effects expert, James Akaie, who was killed by an explosion during the filming of a movie in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The film’s producer and director James Abinibi disclosed the tragic incident in a statement on Instagram on Friday, describing the loss as devastating for the entire cast and crew.
The explosion occurred near the end of filming, the statement said. According to reports, when the accident occurred, Chijia, who was in charge of special effects and pyrotechnics, was working in the special effects preparation area outside the main set.
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we confirm that a tragic accident occurred on location in Abeokuta towards the end of filming, resulting in the death of our respected colleague and friend James Akai,” Abinibi said.
Producers explained that Akaie was testing an unauthorized pyrotechnic device involving gas cylinders with the help of two assistants when the explosion occurred.
“During filming, James was experimenting with two of his assistants on an unauthorized pyrotechnic simulation involving a gas cylinder when a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated special effects preparation area outside the set.” the statement read.
Chi Jia was seriously injured in the explosion and died after being taken to the hospital. Two of his assistants suffered burn injuries and were taken to a specialist hospital for treatment.
“James died from his injuries in hospital. Two of his assistants suffered burns from the fire and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital where they received immediate treatment and were later confirmed to be in a stable condition as they continued to receive treatment.” Abinibi added.
Abinibi noted that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the explosion, adding that the production team is cooperating fully with the authorities.
“Relevant authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the specific circumstances that led to the explosion. We are fully cooperating with this investigation and conducting further internal reviews.” he said.
Abinibi described Akaie as a dedicated professional and said the late special effects artist had a lasting impact on everyone who worked with him.
“James is a talented and passionate special effects and pyrotechnics artist whose creativity, dedication and love for his craft is an inspiration to all who work with him,” he said.
He also appealed for understanding and privacy from the families and crew of the deceased.
“We will remember him not only for his extraordinary skills, but also for the dynamic presence he brought to our sets every day. We ask that James’ family and our crew respect their privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.” the statement added.
