On Tuesday, Nollywood stakeholders held a candlelight vigil in memory of Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, the founder of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).
Many actors, actresses, and film producers attended the event in Enugu, which was organized by veteran actress Patience Ozokwo.
The candle procession began in Enugu’s Okpara Square and ended at the Golden Valley Lounge in Independence Layout, where prayers and tributes were offered in memory of Anyiam-Osigwe, who died on January 9.
Patience Ozokwo, who spoke at the event, said the candle night was their way of thanking and honoring the deceased for her contributions to the film industry.
In a tribute to her, Anyiam-Osigwe was described as “a great woman, so organized, articulate, and a kind-hearted person.”
She went on to say that because of her generosity, many Nollywood actors and actresses have been lifted and taken to places they never expected to go. Patience Ozokwo, for example, stated:
“Her interest is to take others where they never dreamt of, including older persons who had not achieved a lot in the industry.
“When I heard of her demise, I was shocked because we are like sisters but in all, I thank God for a life well spent.
“I said she couldn’t be buried unless we did something like this for her.”
Speaking at the event, veteran actor Nkem Owoh stated that Anyiam-Osigwe was a unique woman in the film industry.
He added that the impact she created in the industry would not die, saying, “I have great respect for her works through AMAA.”
Nkem Owoh said:
“Peace Anyiam-Osigwe is irreplaceable and her contributions to the movie industry can never be erased.”
He said the Nollywood family gathered to give her their last respect and to her family:
“I say may God give them the fortitude to bear the loss”.
The late Anyiam-Osigwe was described as a friend, mother, and teacher by the chairman of the Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria (AMP), Enugu chapter, Johnpaul Nwanganga, and her death is a huge loss to the industry and the entire nation. According to Nwanganga: “We will immortalise her by keeping and building on those legacies she left behind.”
