Nollywood special effects artist, James Akaie, has died after an explosion on a movie set in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The film production company, RockBottom Flix, said the accident happened when Akaie was testing an unauthorised special effects setup using a gas cylinder, along with two assistants.
Akaie was badly injured in the explosion and later died in the hospital. His two assistants suffered burns but are currently receiving treatment and are in stable condition.
The producer and director of the film, James Abinibi, confirmed the incident. He described Akaie as a talented and passionate artist who inspired everyone around him.
Abinibi explained that the explosion happened in an effects preparation area outside the main film set while filming was almost finished. He said investigations have started to find out exactly what caused the explosion, and the production team is fully cooperating with the authorities.
He also asked the public to respect the privacy of Akaie’s family and the film crew during this difficult time.
James Akaie was well known in Nollywood for his special effects work in movies such as “Mai Martaba,” “The Night of June 7th,” “Dark October,” and “Ireke.”
