A special effects and pyrotechnics artist James Akaie is dead.

The news was shared by Film producer and director, James Abinibi, following a fatal explosion on a movie set in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we confirm a tragic accident occurred on location in Abeokuta set of our film as filming was coming to a wrap, resulting in the death of our esteemed colleague and friend, James Akaie."

“During a filming session, a sudden and unexpected explosion occurred in a designated effects preparation area outside of the film set where James was experimenting on an unauthorised Pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants,” Abinibi disclosed on Friday, 16, on Instagram.

Mr Akaie was known for his outstanding special effects makeup work on several major Nollywood movies.

His credits include “Mai Martaba”, “The Night of June 7th”, “Dark October”, “Ireke”, among others.

He said Akaie died at the hospital where he was rushed after sustaining severe injuries.

Mr Abinibi added that two other aides suffered burns and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital, where they received prompt medical attention.

He confirmed that they were in stable condition and were continuing to receive treatment.

“The specific circumstances leading to the explosion are currently under a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities. We are cooperating fully with this investigation as we further conduct our own internal review. Out of respect for James’s family and the investigative process, we cannot provide further details at this time.

“James’s innovative spirit and commitment to artistic excellence were unmatched. He consistently sought to elevate every project with his talent, a testament to his deep passion for filmmaking. We will remember him not only for his exceptional skill but for the vibrant presence he brought to our set every day”, said Abinibi.

Nollywood also lost actress and producer Allwell Ademola, who passed away at the age of forty-three.

Reports suggested that she died on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

News of her death spread quickly across social media, which saw several actors took to their platforms to express commiserate with her family.

Actress Fathia Williams shared the sad news on Instagram, posting, “Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke. Allahu Akbar.”

Damola Olatunji also reacted by sharing a candle image with the words, “Life is a mirage,” while Mide Martins posted a photo of Ademola on Facebook accompanied by a tribute.

Bidemi Kosoko responded with disbelief in an emotional Instagram post, openly rejecting the news.

“No way. No, no, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name. I refuse to accept this one Lai Lai. God forbid. Olorun oni je,” she wrote. She went on to plead for a response from the late actress, adding, “Just reply to my message, abeg, oremi/aunty mi. I will wait patiently for your reply.”

Information circulating within the industry suggests she collapsed at home and was taken to a hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

Nigerian actor, content creator and influencer Odira Nwobu is dead.

According to his lawyer Chukwujiekwu Chukwudi and the Guild of Nigeria, who spoke to the BBC, the actor who died on Monday, November 25, died in South Africa at the age of forty-three (43).

The cause of the death is yet to be known but Chukwujiekwu Chukwudi has revealed that an ambulance was called to Nwobu's hotel in the town of Benoni, near Johannesburg, after he was discovered alone in his room "gasping for breath"

Adding that, Paramedics attempted to keep the actor alive using a defibrillator, but he died at the scene before they could take him to the hospital.

While his family is yet to comment on the matter, many Nigerians and fans have expressed shock online.

Odira Nwobu was born in Nigeria's south-eastern state of Enugu in 1982.

He was in more than 60 films during his lifetime and was well-known for his comedic persona and babyface.

He landed his first professional role - in a film called Joseph the Dreamer - straight out of secondary school.

He told the BBC News Igbo in 2021 that he enjoyed a successful career but often felt boxed into the same kinds of roles that pushed him toward creating online content, where he felt he had more creative freedom.

On TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, he built a large audience, gathering hundreds of thousands of followers.

According to Emeka Rollas, president of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria, Nwobu was in South Africa at the time of his passing with a team of social media influencers promoting a Nigerian-owned real estate company.

His lawyer was also on the trip, serving as the legal adviser to the Nigerian firm that arranged the visit.

"[We] were shocked to receive calls from Nigeria to confirm the passing away of the young man, while we were still debating how to break the news to his family," Mr Chukwudi said.