Preliminary autopsy results in the deaths of two Nollywood production crew members found on a Lagos film set have ruled out food poisoning as the cause of their deaths.
The two men, identified as cinematographer Walter Odediran and lighting director Godstime Imeh, were discovered lifeless on February 7, inside a Nissan vehicle parked on a movie location in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. The film set was near Evercare Hospital, where a shoot was in progress at the time.
The film production was reportedly directed by former Big Brother Naija housemate Boma Akpore.
Pathologists found little or no food in the victims’ stomachs during the autopsy. According to Vanguard, a source involved in the post mortem said, “In one case, the stomach was empty, while the other contained only a small amount of food. It was almost as if he hadn’t eaten anything.”
The findings have led investigators to discount food poisoning as a cause of death for now. To determine what happened, additional laboratory tests are being carried out on blood and tissue samples. These tests, including toxicology and histology examinations, are expected to take two to three weeks.
Speaking to journalists after receiving the preliminary results, Walter’s elder brother, Kola Odediran, said the autopsy had provided some clarity but not yet final answers. He said:
“The autopsy itself is complete, and no food was found in my late brother. The results indicate he did not eat anything. But they are going to carry out toxicology and histology tests, which will provide the definitive answers we are looking for.”
The deaths of Odediran and Imeh shocked many in the film community. Earlier police reports show that the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department had taken over the matter and is working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have not yet released a confirmed cause of death. Investigators are examining possible factors, including environmental conditions and exposure to harmful substances. The additional tests are expected to provide clearer answers.
Family members and colleagues are awaiting the final laboratory results as the investigation continues.
