The father of late Nollywood actor Junior Pope, Ozor Luke Odonwodo, has passed away at the age of 80, just one year after his son's tragic death.

Jennifer Awele, wife of the late actor, announced the passing of her father-in-law through an emotional post on her Instagram page. According to her statement, Ozor Luke Odonwodo died shortly after she had visited him in Enugu.

"Barely one month ago, I was with you in Enugu. Some days later, Reme (my mother-in-law) called, asked how me and her boys were doing, and then said that her husband had gone to meet my husband," Jennifer wrote.

In her tribute, Jennifer described her late father-in-law as a caring man who genuinely loved her. She praised him 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."

The news comes as another blow to the family still grieving the loss of Junior Pope, who died on April 10, 2024, in a boat accident on the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State. The actor was traveling to a movie location when the tragic incident occurred, claiming his life and those of four other crew members.

"Reme, Nwanyiomam, this is actually a lot within one year, but I pray God gives you and us all the strength we need to keep pushing no matter how hard it seems," Jennifer added, addressing her mother-in-law.

She concluded her emotional tribute with a farewell to both her husband and father-in-law: "Adieu father and son. You are sorely missed, but we hold onto the resurrection promises in John 5:28-29 and Acts 24:15. Ozor Luke Odonwodo, Jnr Pope Odonwodo — may your gentle souls rest in perfect peace till we meet to part no more."

The passing of Ozor Luke Odonwodo adds to the series of challenges faced by the family since Junior Pope's sudden death last year, which sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry.