Tragedy struck the Nigerian film industry on Friday as two members of a movie production crew reportedly died from suspected food poisoning in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
The incident occurred around 5 p.m. at Works Layout by Nwaosu Street, where members of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) were shooting a film. The victims, identified as Monday Israel and Evans Sampson, allegedly collapsed shortly after consuming food and drinks provided on set.
According to reports by security analyst Zagazola Makama, the crew had been served a meal during a brief gathering after filming. Soon after, the two men fell ill and were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, where they were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies have been deposited in the morgue for autopsy.
Two other individuals affected by the incident are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
Former chairman of the AGN Imo State chapter, Conac Umez, confirmed the incident, stating that the group had gathered for light refreshment at the producer’s residence after the day’s shoot.
“From what I heard, they had a short merriment at the producer’s house after filming for the day. They took a Calypso drink offered to them by the producer,” Umez said. “But when they retired to their hotel room, two of them started vomiting and died in the process. The other two were unconscious and rushed to a hospital. They are responding to treatment. They also said the producer drank the same drink with them.”
Authorities have reportedly arrested several suspects in connection with the incident, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of death.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria and local law enforcement have yet to issue an official statement as of the time of this report.
