NOLLYWOOD REACTS: EXPRESSIONS OF SYMPATHY AND REFLECTION AFTER IBADAN EXPLOSION

In the wake of the tragic explosion that rocked Ibadan on the evening of January 16, 2024, the Nollywood community is grappling with shock and grief as prominent figures share their harrowing experiences and condolences.

The incident, attributed to stored explosives from illegal mining activities at Dejo Oyelese street, Bodija, claimed lives and many other individuals injured. The reverberations of the explosion have been felt not only throughout the city but also within the hearts of Nollywood actors and actresses.

Yoruba actress, Aisha Lawal, narrowly escaped the explosion and took to Instagram to recount her close encounter with tragedy. Expressing gratitude for her safety, Lawal shared the haunting details of witnessing numerous casualties at the scene. In a poignant post, she lamented the gravity of the situation, stating, “Too many dead bodies, ehhhhhh what exactly is going on ooo. Olohun sanu oooo.”

Muyiwa Ademola, a well-known Nollywood actor, used social media to reassure his friends and family of his safety while acknowledging the somber atmosphere in Ibadan. Offering prayers for the departed souls and the injured, Ademola described the day as a sad one for the city, emphasizing the emotional toll the tragedy has taken.

The well acclaimed Funke Akindele, shared her deepest condolences on Instagram, expressing sorrow over the unimaginable loss. Her post conveyed a heartfelt message of strength and healing for those affected by the tragedy, reflecting the deep impact it has had on the entire Nollywood community.

Iyabo Ojo, another prominent Yoruba actress and Nollywood figure, lamented the series of heart-wrenching events in Nigeria, including the Ibadan explosion. Unable to watch the distressing videos, she extended prayers for the victims’ families, those receiving treatment, and those who lost properties. Ojo’s heartfelt message underscored the emotional toll these tragedies have on public figures as well as the nation as a whole.

As the investigation into the illegal mining activities continues, the expressions of shock and grief from Nollywood reveal a community united in mourning, reflecting the deep compassion and empathy that resonates beyond the screen.

Inside Nollywood and the whole Nigerian film industry stand in solidarity with the affected families, offering not only condolences but also a shared sense of loss and empathy in the face of this heartbreaking incident in Ibadan.

By Shalom O. Obisesan