“Too Many Untimely Deaths”: Yul Edochie Mourns Late Cinematographers, Nollywood in Fresh Wave of Grief

Nollywood has once again been thrown into mourning following the heart-wrenching deaths of two young cinematographers, Johnson and Gozman, who tragically lost their lives in a car accident along Port Harcourt Road.

According to reports, the duo were returning from a colleague’s wedding celebration when their journey ended in tragedy. Their sudden deaths have further deepened the sorrow within Nigeria’s film industry, which is still reeling from recent losses including Nkechi Nweje and veteran Columbus Irisoanga.

Taking to Instagram, actor and director Yul Edochie expressed his anguish, sharing a candlelight tribute and writing:

“Too many untimely deaths in Nollywood. Really sad. R.I.P. to our fallen brothers. May God grant your families the strength to bear this painful loss.”

💔 A Haunting Pattern of Losses

What was once a vibrant season of celebration has now become a time of grief. With back-to-back announcements of the passing of industry members—young and old—Nollywood is visibly shaken.

The tragic death of Johnson and Gozman is not only a loss of life, but a loss of talent and future potential. These were the creative minds behind the scenes—visual artists who brought emotion and movement to the screen.

💬 Opinion: Time for Industry-wide Reflection and Safety Awareness

These frequent losses are more than coincidences—they’re a call for deeper reflection within the Nollywood community. While grief pours out, we must also ask:
👉 Are our road travel conditions safe for crews who often return late from long shoots and events?
👉 Is there enough wellness and support for grieving creatives who work tirelessly under pressure?

As Yul Edochie pointed out, this is more than just sad—it’s alarming. Nollywood must begin to not only honour its fallen but protect its living.

📌 Join the conversation and honour our departed creatives using:
#RIPJohnsonAndGozman #NollywoodMourns #PrayForNollywood #TalkTalkNigeria #FilmFamilyForever 🕯️🎬