LAGOS, Nigeria – The Nigerian entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of John Okafor, popularly known by his stage name Mr Ibu, at the age of 62.
The beloved actor, known for his comedic roles and distinctive character in Nollywood films, passed away on Saturday evening at Evercare Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria.
The news of his demise has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and among his vast fan base.
Mr Ibu’s career spanned several decades, during which he became one of the most recognizable faces in Nollywood, endearing himself to millions with his humour and unique portrayal of characters.
Fans and colleagues have flooded social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), with condolences and tributes, reminiscing about the joy and laughter he brought into their lives through his memorable film roles.
The actor’s health had been a subject of concern in recent years, with reports indicating he faced multiple health challenges.
His situation had become so dire that amputation was deemed necessary to improve his chances of survival.
Despite these challenges, an update from his family in November suggested he was on the path to recovery, making the news of his passing all the more shocking.
Mr Ibu’s life was not without its trials; he openly discussed being targeted by individuals who envied his success. In 2019, he revealed that some of his kinsmen had paid his domestic workers to poison him due to jealousy over his flourishing career.
He claimed to have been poisoned on three separate occasions, with the most recent being in May 2022.
In an emotional interview, Okafor reflected on his near-death experiences and his determination to survive, attributing his recovery to divine intervention. He revealed that he was “seeing people on the other side”.
He said, “My illness was perpetrated by people that hate me. They did what they did to me. Later, I was taken to the hospital. The doctors are prophets. So, they went into my system and they told me what was wrong and what they were going to do. I said ‘Whatever you are going to do, please, do it, let me live because if I die like this the enemies will laugh’. And then the doctors said ‘Okay, there’s no problem’.”
The actor’s passing comes less than 24 hours after the death of another actor, Yoruba movie industry’s, Quadri Oyebamiji, known as Sisi Quadri, further deepening the sense of loss within the Nigerian film industry.
As the news of Mr Ibu’s death spreads, several notable figures in Nollywood have expressed their sorrow by posting lighted candles on social media in his honour, a gesture symbolizing remembrance and respect for the departed soul.
The family and representatives of Mr Ibu have yet to make a formal announcement regarding his passing.
John Okafor’s legacy as Mr Ibu will live on through the extensive body of work he leaves behind, serving as a testament to his talent, resilience, and the indelible mark he made on Nollywood and its audience around the world.
