Lagos, Nigeria | By Michael Wandati | In a somber turn of events, Nigerians are grieving the loss of renowned Nollywood actor John Ikechukwu Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, who passed away in Lagos aged 62.
Emeka Rollas, President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, conveyed the distressing news on Saturday 2, March 2024, revealing that the actor succumbed to a cardiac arrest.
“I announce with [a] deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didn’t make it,” said Actors Guild of Nigeria President Emeka Rollas on Saturday 2, March 2024.
Okafor catapulted to fame two decades ago with his iconic role in the film “Mr Ibu,” a portrayal that would become his enduring moniker throughout his illustrious career. Regarded as one of the most outstanding comedic performances in Nigerian cinema, the movie set the stage for Okafor’s subsequent appearances in over 200 Nollywood films, including notable titles such as “Keziah,” “9 Wives,” and various sequels to “Mr Ibu.”
Actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie bid farewell to the late actor with a poignant message, expressing her wishes for him to rest in peace.
“Rest well, sir,” said actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie in her tribute.
Joy Ezeilo, a law professor and former UN rapporteur, described Okafor as a “beloved” figure who “brought laughter to many.”
Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s Culture Minister, acknowledged Okafor’s status as a household name, attributing his impact to the joy he brought to families throughout his career.
Reports from local sources indicate that Okafor breathed his last at an undisclosed hospital in Lagos state.
His health struggles became public knowledge last year, leading to a crowdfunding campaign for his medical expenses. Unfortunately, one of his legs had to be amputated in November 2023.
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Tragically, his final years were marred by adversity, with the actor alleging multiple attempts on his life, as reported by Nigeria’s Punch newspaper.
The actor’s surviving family includes 13 children, as per local media reports.
In a turn of legal complications, Okafor’s son Daniel and adopted daughter Jasmine Chioma were arrested in January on suspicion of embezzling $60,700 from his funds. The pair is scheduled to appear in court on March 11 for the next hearing.
The demise of Mr Ibu marks the end of an era in Nigerian cinema, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable performances.
