Jennifer Awele, the widow of actor Junior Pope, has written a heartfelt message to mark one year since his tragic death.
Junior Pope and four others drowned in the Anam River, Anambra State, on April 10, 2024, while returning from a movie set produced by filmmaker Adanma Luke.
The incident sparked public outrage, with Adanma receiving criticism over the lack of safety precautions during the production.
In a touching post shared on Instagram on Thursday, Jennifer reflected on how life has changed since losing her husband.
She admitted it has been a difficult year filled with pain and uncertainty.
“It’s been one year of standing in the face of our unimaginable loss, and not a day has gone by without a thought of you,” she wrote.
“Your love still surrounds us, your laughter echoes in our hearts, and your presence is felt in the quiet moments when we miss you most.”
The mother of three said trying to stay strong for their children while everything around them falls apart has been tough.
She added that her husband’s death taught her to live each day as it comes.
“You have no idea how tough it’s been, trying to stay strong for each other even as the world around us seems fallen apart,” she continued.
“The grief remains heavy, the absence left a void that words can never fill.”
Jennifer also shared the heartbreaking questions their sons ask about promises their father made before his death.
“I still don’t have the right words to respond to Jason and Jaden wanting to know if Daddy will fulfill his promise of taking them to a proper football academy and be present at their first official match,” she said.
“Then the littlest one, Jamon, keeps asking when Daddy is bringing the big toy car he promised him.”
Despite the pain, she expressed gratitude to those who have stood by her family during their time of grief.
“We appreciate everyone who sympathized with us and stood and still stand by us through our time of grief. Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude for your love and support towards us.”
She ended the tribute by praying for her late husband’s soul to continue to rest in peace. “We cannot question God, right? May Your Soul Rest In Perfect Peace, My Love.”
In the comment section, fans and colleagues paid their respects to the late actor.
Others, including May Edochie and Rachael Okonkwo, also shared their tributes on Instagram.
