Nigeria: Autopsy rules out food poisoning in death of nollywood crew members
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
Lagos, Feb 19, 2026 — Preliminary autopsy results for the two Nollywood production crew members found dead on February 7, 2026, at a filming location in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, have ruled out food poisoning as the cause of death.
The victims, 36‑year‑old cinematographer Walter Odediran and lighting director Godstime Imeh, were discovered lifeless inside Imeh’s Nissan car, parked on the premises of Evercare Hospital, where a movie was being shot. Pathologists reported that Odediran’s stomach was completely empty, while Imeh’s contained only a small amount of food, indicating neither had recently eaten a substantial meal.
To determine the exact cause of death, investigators will conduct additional toxicology and histology tests on blood and tissue samples. These analyses aim to detect any harmful substances that may have been ingested or inhaled before the deaths. Results from the tests are expected within two to three weeks.
Kola Odediran, Walter’s elder brother, confirmed that the family received the preliminary autopsy report on Wednesday. “The autopsy itself is complete, and no food was found in my late brother. The results indicate he did not eat anything. But they are going to carry out toxicology and histology tests, which will provide the definitive answers we are looking for,” he said.
Relatives of the deceased are awaiting the forthcoming test results with hope that they will clarify the mysterious circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
