The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, is reeling from a shocking and tragic incident that has once again spotlighted the often-overlooked safety of its behind-the-scenes heroes. The Lagos State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the deaths of two film production crew members, Ekemini “GeeTee” Imeh and Ayodeji Walter Odediran, who were found lifeless inside a parked vehicle at a movie set in Lekki, Lagos.
The Incident: A Routine Day Turns Tragic
According to police sources, the two men arrived early on Saturday, February 7, at the Evercare Hospital premises—a location being used for filming—to install lighting equipment. After completing their work, they entered a Nissan vehicle parked on the property to rest while awaiting the next phase of production.
A chilling timeline emerged from preliminary reports:
- ~11 a.m.: A crew member brought breakfast to the men in the car. The air conditioner was running, and they were reportedly responsive and appeared fine.
- Later in the day: As filming continued, repeated calls to their phones went unanswered.
- ~8 p.m.: After production wrapped, the two men were discovered unresponsive in the vehicle. Disturbing signs of distress, including foaming at the mouth and bloodstains around the nose and lips (on one victim), were observed.
The production was reportedly directed by former Big Brother Naija housemate Boma Akpore. The incident was immediately reported to the Maroko Police Station.
The Victims: Pillars of the Industry
The loss is deeply personal for Nollywood and extends far beyond this single set.
Ekemini “GeeTee” Imeh was not just a lighting director; he was a celebrated industry veteran and the CEO of his own lighting company. His creative vision illuminated countless major productions, including the acclaimed film King of Boys, and iconic music videos for superstar Davido and other top artistes. His death represents the extinguishing of a brilliant and influential creative force.
Ayodeji Walter Odediran was his colleague and friend, a dedicated crew member whose life was cut short in the same heartbreaking circumstances.
The Investigation: Seeking Answers
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) at Panti, Yaba, for a thorough and discreet investigation.
Key aspects of the probe include:
- Reviewing closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from the premises.
- Conducting comprehensive autopsy and toxicology tests to determine the exact cause of death. These tests are critical in establishing whether carbon monoxide poisoning from the idling vehicle’s air conditioner, a medical event, or another factor was responsible.
- Interviewing witnesses and members of the production crew.
A Chilling Pattern: “A Pattern of Precious Lives Lost”
This devastating event casts a long shadow, coming just days after another Lagos tragedy. Last week, gospel musician Matthew Ogundele (Segun Praise) and three members of his crew were found dead in a music studio in the Ajah area. While the circumstances differ, the simultaneous loss of creative professionals in enclosed spaces has ignited urgent conversations about safety, working conditions, and the well-being of Nigeria’s entertainment workforce.
The Unanswered Questions and Industry Reflections
As the investigation unfolds, several pressing questions linger:
- The Vehicle Environment: How long was the car’s engine running with the air conditioner on in an enclosed, possibly poorly ventilated space? Could carbon monoxide fumes have seeped into the cabin?
- Health and Safety Protocols: What safety measures are in place on film sets, especially in temporary or repurposed locations like hospitals? Is there mandatory training on risks like carbon monoxide poisoning?
- Worker Vigilance: While the crew member who brought breakfast noted they seemed fine, could any signs of drowsiness or discomfort have been missed or ignored in the hustle of a production?
- Long Hours and Fatigue: The men were reportedly resting in the car while awaiting the next shoot. Does the industry’s demanding schedule contribute to such risky decisions to rest in confined, hazardous environments?
For many in Nollywood, this is not just an accident; it’s a stark symptom of systemic issues. The industry is celebrated for its resilience and output, but its backbone—the dedicated technicians, lighting crews, set builders, and assistants—often works under immense pressure with minimal formal safety oversight.
A Call for Change and Remembrance
As families, friends, and colleagues mourn GeeTee Imeh and Walter Odediran, the call is rising from within Nollywood for concrete change. This tragedy must catalyze:
- Mandatory safety training for all production personnel.
- Strict protocols on vehicle use on sets, including prohibitions on idling engines in enclosed areas.
- Improved welfare and rest facilities for crew members during long shoot days.
- Regular health checks and awareness campaigns about environmental hazards.
Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues of Ekemini “GeeTee” Imeh and Ayodeji Walter Odediran. May their memories be a blessing, and may their tragic passing be the last wake-up call Nollywood needs to fundamentally safeguard every person who brings its stories to life.
The investigation continues. The industry must respond.
