Tragedy! Popular Nollywood crew member dies in explosion

Popular Nigerian special effects artist James Akaie has died following injuries sustained during an explosion on a movie set in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The tragic incident reportedly occurred during a filming session at a movie location, where an explosion happened in an effects preparation area outside the main film set.

Confirming the development, renowned movie director and producer James Abinibi announced Akaie’s death in a statement shared on the official Instagram page of RockBottom Flix on Friday.

According to Abinibi, the explosion occurred while Akaie was experimenting with an unauthorised pyrotechnic setup involving a gas cylinder, alongside two assistants.

“During a filming session, a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside the film set, where James was experimenting with an unauthorised pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants,” the statement read.

Abinibi disclosed that Akaie was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. He added that the two assistants involved in the incident sustained burn injuries and were immediately transferred to a specialist hospital for treatment.

“They received prompt medical attention and have been confirmed stable as they continue to receive treatment,” he said.

The late James Akaie was widely regarded within the Nollywood industry for his technical expertise and contribution to realistic special effects in Nigerian films