Abubakar Yakubu, newly declared President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, is reportedly in police custody barely hours after securing victory in a closely contested AGN national election, raising immediate controversy and shock across Nollywood’s creative space.
The development unfolded shortly after his emergence was announced, creating uncertainty around what many described as a significant moment for the guild’s leadership transition.
Yakubu, who clinched the presidency by three votes against fellow contender Rita Daniels, was said to have been involved in a tragic accident that claimed the life of an unidentified individual, escalating the post-election atmosphere from celebration to sudden tragedy.
Moreover, stakeholders within the guild expressed disbelief that what was meant to usher in a new era for the association has now become overshadowed by a possible criminal investigation.
The incident occurred in the Surulere axis of Lagos, where Yakubu was later detained at the Barracks Police Station pending further inquiry into the fatal crash.
A senior police officer, who requested anonymity because an official briefing has yet to be released, reportedly said the matter has gone beyond routine questioning.
“We have a responsibility to investigate any accident that leads to loss of life, regardless of status or circumstances,” the officer said.
Authorities have not issued a formal statement on what led to the collision, and no findings have been publicly disclosed as detectives continue to evaluate available evidence.
Furthermore, neither Yakubu’s legal representatives nor the AGN national executives have commented on whether the ordeal will affect his assumption of office or delay the guild’s planned transition process.
As Nollywood awaits clarity, industry watchers anticipate that the coming days could reshape not just the guild’s leadership trajectory but also the public conversation surrounding accountability, road safety, and the conduct of newly elected public-facing figures.
More developments are expected as investigations progress and official statements are released by relevant authorities.