The demise of Mr. John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, was preceded by a period of persistent health struggles, starting with allegations of poisoning by domestic staff in 2019, purportedly orchestrated by his kinsmen.
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In May 2022, he claimed to have faced poisoning again for the third time, which affected his finances and career greatly. Upon recovery from the poisoning, to the excitement of his fans, he tried to revive his career by participating in some social media challenges, especially on TikTok, with the help of his adopted daughter, Jasmine Chioma. However, in October 2023, his health had significantly deteriorated, leading to multiple surgeries, including the heartbreaking amputation of one of his legs, which was a result of blood clotting around his leg, attributed to the disease of the blood vessel.
When the news of his deteriorating state of health broke, fans, colleagues, and well-meaning Nigerians supported him by raising money for his treatment. This contribution was accompanied by a lot of drama, as his adopted daughter was accused of squandering the money meant for his treatment.
Despite these health challenges, there was a glimmer of hope when, in November 2023, his family shared news of his recovery. However, on the evening of Saturday, March 2, 2024, the news of his death broke, stirring up emotions and causing a buzz across social media. He was said to have suffered cardiac arrest, which he didn’t survive.
The sudden news of his passing now leaves a void in the Nigerian movie industry and a profound sense of loss for his family and countless fans. Some of his colleagues and fans have taken to social media to express their pain.
The president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Rollas, wrote on his Instagram page, “Sad day for the Actors Guild of Nigeria. Kate Henshaw lost her mother earlier today, and Mr. Ibu suffered cardiac arrest, according to his manager of 24 years, Don Nwuzor. I announce with a deep sense of grief that Mr. Ibu did not make it. May his soul rest in peace.”
Mercy Johnson-Okojie wrote, “It is well…… Rest well sir.”
Movie veteran, Kanayo O. Kanayo, wrote, “Africa’s Mr. BEAN takes a bow. John Okafor, aka Mr. Ibu, is the most outstanding comic actor by CONDUCT. He didn’t need to say a word to evoke laughter. His mien, body movement, etc. was comic. He embodied laughter. May God, who called him home, grant him eternal rest. God will smile receiving you. Mr Ibu. GOOD NIGHT.”
The legacy of Mr. Ibu as a stalwart in Nollywood will undoubtedly endure, even as the industry grapples with the departure of one of its comic maestros.
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