Hazards at workplaces are increasingly making going to work uninteresting. The increasing rate of avoidable untimely deaths at places of work is already causing fears and controversies, particularly, concerning the recent boat mishap involving some seasoned actors and actresses of the Nollywood industry.
The tragedy involved five Nigerian Nollywood actors, including the popular actor Junior Pope, and this has been blamed on negligence. Gom Mirian writes that this sad occurrence has brought to light the urgent need for the Nigerian government to enforce health and safety laws in the workplace to protect the lives and safety of employees.
Odds
On April 10, 2024, these talented individuals and other crew members were on their way to a remote location to film a scene for an upcoming movie tagged, ‘The Other Side of Life’ when their boat capsized in the rough waters of the Anam River in Anambra State, Nigeria. The incident, which was heavily blamed on the lack of proper safety protocols, particularly the non-use of life jackets, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond.
Negligence and Regulatory Failure
According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), more than 2.3 million people die every year from work-related accidents or diseases around the world, leading to approximately 6,000 deaths. In Nigeria, the situation is equally alarming, with a significant number of deaths due to negligence or regulatory failure on health and safety in the workplace.
Existing Laws and Regulatory Framework in Nigeria
Nigeria has existing laws and regulations aimed at ensuring workplace health and safety. The Factories Act of 1990, the Labour Act of 2004, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Act are among the legislative frameworks that outline the responsibilities of employers to provide a safe working environment for their employees. These laws mandate the provision of safety equipment, training, and adherence to safety standards in the workplace.
However, despite these laws, enforcement and compliance remain major challenges. The lack of stringent enforcement mechanisms and oversight has led to a culture of non-compliance and negligence in many workplaces across the country. The tragic incident in Anambra State serves as a poignant example of the consequences of lax enforcement and non-compliance with existing laws.
Voices of Concern: Film Producer Adamna Luke Speaks Out
Adanma Luke, the producer of the ill-fated Nollywood project, expressed deep regret and sorrow over the loss of the actors and crew members.
In an interview, Luke emphasised the need for strict adherence to safety protocols by crew members. She stated, “These crew members were like a family to me, they have been working with me for a long time in Lagos. When I got to the scene, my DOP, Emeka told me that Junior Pope rejected his life jackets and that it was dirty, at least those with life jackets survived.”
In reaction to the developments, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) banned the shooting of movies at the riverine areas and also suspended the producer of the film, Adanma Luke, noting that no actor is allowed to work with her as a producer until further notice.
Expert Insights: The Urgent Need for Enforcement
Experts in occupational health and safety have long been advocating for stricter enforcement of these laws to prevent avoidable tragedies like the Anam river accident.
Dr. Nnenna Udo, a public health specialist, emphasised the importance of holding employers accountable for the safety of their workers.
“Employers have a legal and moral obligation to provide a safe working environment for their employees. Failure to do so not only puts lives at risk but also undermines the productivity and well-being of the workforce,” she stated. “Many workers, especially in the entertainment industry, are not adequately informed about the rgisks involved in their jobs and the safety measures they should take. The government must invest in education and outreach initiatives to empower workers to advocate for their safety.”
Meanwhile, Dr. James-Anan, a sociologist and a lecturer at the Benue State University, highlighted the broader societal implications of workplace safety negligence.
He stated, “The failure to enforce health and safety laws not only endangers the lives of workers but also perpetuates a culture of disregard for human life and well-being. The government must send a clear message that the safety of workers is non-negotiable.”
He continued, “The tragedy at Anam River underscores the urgent need for a cultural shift towards prioritising workplace safety. Employers hold a sacred duty to protect the lives and well-being of their employees, a responsibility that should never be taken lightly.”
The Way Forward: Urgent Action Required
The tragic loss of the Nollywood actors and crew members in the Anam River serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for the Nigerian government to awaken to the enforcement of health and safety laws in the workplace. The absence of life jackets, a basic safety requirement, should never have resulted in such devastating consequences.
The government must take decisive action to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, hold employers accountable for ensuring workplace safety, and create a culture of compliance with health and safety regulations. This includes robust oversight, regular inspections, and severe penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and training programs should be implemented to educate employers and employees on the importance of workplace safety.
The lives lost in the Anam River tragedy must not be in vain. Their untimely deaths should catalyze change, prompting the Nigerian government to prioritize the safety and well-being of workers across all industries. It is time for the government to awaken to the urgency of enforcing health and safety laws in the workplace to prevent further loss of precious lives. The time for action is now.
