Filmmaker James Abinibi has announced the death of special effects makeup artist James Akaie following an explosion on the set of the upcoming movie One Gidi Night in Abeokuta.
In a statement released in collaboration with Rock Bottom Flix on Friday, Abinibi said the incident occurred as filming was nearing completion.
The statement read, “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.”
Abinibi explained that 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 unauthorized pyrotechnic stimulation involving a gas cylinder alongside his two assistants.” He added that James succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, while his two assistants sustained burns and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital. They were later confirmed stable and continue to receive treatment.
He said the specific circumstances leading to the explosion are under a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities and that the production team is also conducting an internal review. Abinibi asked that the privacy of Akaie’s family and the crew be respected during this time.
A source told QEDng that the unauthorized experiment was carried out by the deceased on Monday night in an open space while actors Uzor Arukwe and Gabriel Afolayan were on another part of the set.
James Akaie has since been buried.
One Gidi Night is a film by Rock Bottom Flix described as a gritty, real-time thriller set in Lagos. The cast includes Uzor Arukwe, Gabriel Afolayan, Kelvin Ikeduba and Idia Aisien, with the film exploring the city’s dynamic and complex environment.
Abinibi, known for directing films that address social themes, previously released Miss PJ, which focused on issues affecting women.
