Movie director Chico Ejiro’s funeral rites have begun at the National Theatre.
According to Premium Times, the event tagged ‘Industry Night of Tributes’ and will hold on Tuesday.
The event is expected to feature tributes from Chico’s colleagues, a documentary on his historic career, music and brief sermons.
It will also be an exterior affair to ensure strict compliance to COVID-19 protocols.
Those who organised the event include Fred Amata, President, Directors Guild of Nigeria, DGN, Fidelis Duker, a former DGN President, Segun Arinze, an ex-President, Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, Tunji Bamishigbi, a Lawyer, Director/Producer and talent investor, plus this writer, a former President, Association of Movie Producers, AMP.
The Chief Executive of FAD FM, Calabar and former DGN President, Fidelis Duker, also spoke on the event.
He said, “It is not going to be a mournful night though there will be sober moments. It is going to be a night to celebrate an iconic figure in our industry, a man who will remain an exemplary Director and Producer, an accomplished creative entrepreneur. Chico was a huge influence.
“Throwing more light on the event, he added, Chico affected and inspired so many stars. Many had their breakthrough through his films and he made over 100 movies. So, they are coming from far and wide to celebrate him at this Industry Night of Tributes.”
Chico’s burial arrangements was announced by his brother Zeb Ejiro on February 8.
Ejiro revealed this to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He said Chico will be laid to rest on February 20.
Chico will be buried at the Ejiro’s compound, Ozoro, Isoko North LGA of Delta.
“The obsequies, which is the service of songs for Chico my late brother ,will be a private family event which would also be on zoom. The arrangements are basically to bring the COVID-19 protocols to bear.
“We considered that throwing it open will pull crowd as people will want to be physically present, so we are taking advantage of the zoom for people to key-in,” he said.
Chico died in the early hours of Christmas Day December 25, 2020 from suspected cardiac arrest.
Nicknamed Mr Prolific by journalist Azuh Arinze, Chico was mourned by so many Nollywood actors.
They include Richard Mofe-Damijo, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Regina Askia, Yul Edochie, Ik Ogbonna and Femi Jacobs.
