A quality film is often marked by intense action sequences, intricate stunts and dramatic narratives that not only captivate audiences but also pose significant risks to the actors involved. In recent years, however, Nollywood has increasingly faced challenge in both health and safety standards on set. There is a growing concern that the attention to safety protocols has diminished, potentially jeopardising the well-being of performers.
Many actors find themselves not only struggling with issues of inadequate compensation but also dealing with the complications arising from lax safety measures during filming.
This situation raises important questions about the responsibility of production companies to prioritise the health and safety of their cast and crew members.
In April 2024, the industry was thrown into mourning after actor and producer, John Paul Obumneme Odonwodo, popularly known as John Pope, and three other crew members lost their lives in a boat accident on River Niger in Anambra State while travelling to Asaba, to shoot a movie. The incident sparked a heated conversation about safety in production.
In January of this year, actress Jemima Osunde opened up on her health struggles, specifically, her battle with H. pylori, a bacterial infection known to cause persistent stomach discomfort. This infection has significantly affected her day-to-day life, leading to frequent discomfort that she has had to endure.
Osunde has also been diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a chronic condition characterised by severe acid reflux that can lead to a multitude of complications affecting both physical and mental well-being. Her revelations draw attention to the crucial yet often overlooked issue of food safety and hygiene practices within the entertainment industry. This concern is particularly pressing for actors who frequently face risks associated with the environments in which they work during filming.
Reflecting on her experiences, Osunde expressed her deep regret over her decision to participate in a specific production, particularly, regretting her trip to Ibadan for the shoot.
She voiced her thoughts, saying, “I have never regretted anything the way I regret taking that job and going with them to Ibadan to shoot under their care. God, please help me heal my stomach this year; I am begging you. ”
Another prominent figure in the industry, actor and producer Timini Egbuson, also shared his challenges. He revealed that he has been dealing with hearing impairment and that he suffered from an accident on set, an incident that he believes could have been easily avoided.
Speaking during an interview on the programme LiveWithLynda, Egbuson highlighted the often unseen sacrifices actors make, which frequently go unrecognised amid the pervasive issue of underpayment in the industry.
He lamented, “till today, I don’t hear; my hearing is messed up. I have never talked about it, but my hearing is messed up because of an avoidable accident on set. This was like four years ago. Like, people that are close to me know that I don’t hear.”
Egbuson plans to seek assistance through hearing aids, indicating the severity of his condition and the long-term implications these workplace accidents can have on performers’ lives. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the risks that actors often face and the importance of addressing safety and health standards in the entertainment field.
Many have questioned the effectiveness of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in ensuring production companies adhere to safety rules and regulations on set. Ace actor and producer, Mary Remmy-Njoku recently questioned the benefits of being part of Nollywood guilds and associations on her Instagram page.
Her post read: “A budding filmmaker asked me, ‘What are the benefits of being in Nollywood guilds and associations?’ and I am struggling to answer. Can someone outline the benefits with supporting evidence?”
In response to the menace, Actors Guild of Nigeria President, Emeka Rollas, disclosed that the guild has an articulated safety measure contained in its revised bye-laws and would also become a constitutional matter to be obeyed by any member.
He further explained that part of their current on-set safety measures include, the provision of standard first aid with qualified personnel, emergency action plan, set hygiene, provision of personal protective equipment where required, prohibition of unnecessary risky tasks and adequate insurance cover.
Rollas also emphasised that there are strict penalties like suspension and the guild’s task force is up and doing, monitoring film sets to ensure strict compliance with safety protocols.
He urged production companies to prioritise safety, when he said: “Safety is crucial for maintaining physical and mental well-being, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks on film sets, take necessary precautions, and prioritize safety measures at all times on sets. Follow safety guidelines: Adhere to established safety rules and procedures in all productions.”
