James Akaie, the Nigerian special effects and pyrotechnics artist, has died following an explosion on a movie set.
His passing was announced on Friday in a statement by filmmaker James Abinibi.
The incident occurred in Abeokuta, Ogun state, as the crew was concluding a film shoot.
According to Abinibi, Akaie and two assistants were testing an unauthorised pyrotechnic device involving a gas cylinder in a designated preparation area outside the main set when the explosion happened.
The filmmaker disclosed that Akaie sustained severe injuries and later died in the hospital.
The statement added that his two assistants suffered burns and were rushed to a specialist hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition and continue to receive treatment.
Abinibi described Akaie as “a brilliant and passionate” artist who inspired everyone with his craft. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the family.
The filmmaker confirmed that the production team is fully cooperating with authorities investigating the cause of the explosion.
“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,” the statement reads in part.
“James succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His two other assistants sustained some fire burns and were immediately taken to a specialist hospital, where they got immediate attention and were later confirmed stable as they continue receiving treatment.
“The specific circumstances leading to the explosion are currently under a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities.
“We are cooperating fully with this investigation as we further conduct our own internal review.
“Out of respect for James’s family and the investigative process, we cannot provide further details at this time.”
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The team has also appealed for privacy for the family “as they navigate this unimaginable loss”.