Ghanaian actor Van Vicker has expressed concern over reports that Nigerian actor Godwin Nnadiekwe suffered internal bleeding after allegedly being kicked in the chest by fellow actor Zubby Michael during the filming of a movie scene.
Taking to Instagram, Van Vicker described the incident as “extremely disquieting,” while noting that he has yet to verify the details. He used the moment to highlight a broader issue in Nollywood: the lack of safety protocols during physically demanding scenes.
Vicker stressed the critical role of rehearsals in preventing on-set injuries, especially in the Nigerian film industry, where insurance, stunt doubles, and protective gear are often absent.
“Some filmmakers believe rehearsals reduce the spontaneity or rawness of a performance,” he said. “But actor safety must always come first. Rehearsals don’t eliminate all risk, but they show that a production is being responsible.”
He called the incident a “red flag” and urged industry professionals, fans, and the media to use it as an opportunity to push for stronger safety standards in film production.
Van Vicker concluded by reminding filmmakers that actor safety is just as essential as good acting, sound design, or cinematography.
