Grief has once again visited the Odonwodo family, as Ozor Luke Odonwodo, the father of late Nollywood actor Junior Pope, has passed away—just one year after the actor’s own untimely death. The heartbreaking announcement was made on Thursday, May 22, 2025, by Jennifer Awele, Junior Pope’s widow, via a deeply emotional Instagram post.
Jennifer described her late father-in-law as a selfless and loving patriarch who lived a fulfilled life, prioritizing his family above all. “He passed as an octogenarian who lived a good life, paid his dues, sacrificed a lot for his family and loved ones, and happily reaped the fruits of his labour,” she wrote, adding that he “genuinely loved” her like a daughter.
The emotional weight of the loss was evident in her recounting of a recent visit to Enugu, where she had spent time with him unaware it would be their last. Days later, her mother-in-law called to deliver the news: “Her husband had gone to meet my husband.” The double tragedy within a year has left the family reeling in sorrow.
Ozor Luke, who was in his 80s, was widely respected in his community for his humility, wisdom, and the legacy he built through his family. His death, so soon after the tragic loss of his son, has deepened the mourning among friends, fans, and supporters of the Odonwodo household.
Jennifer ended her tribute with a touching farewell to both father and son: “Adieu father and son. You are sorely missed, but we hold onto the resurrection promises in John 5:28-29 and Acts 24:15.” She also prayed for strength for her mother-in-law and the entire family as they navigate this new wave of heartbreak.
Junior Pope, born John Paul Obumneme Odonwodo, died on April 10, 2024, in a tragic boat accident on the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State. He was en route to a movie location when the vessel capsized, claiming five lives, including his. His death shook Nollywood to its core, as tributes poured in for the actor known for his charisma, humor, and family values.
As news of Ozor Luke’s passing spreads, condolences continue to pour in online with hashtags like #JuniorPope, #OdonwodoFamily, and #RestOnPapa, as Nigerians mourn a family that has given so much to the entertainment industry—and now endures so much pain.
