LAGOS, Nigeria – The sons of popular Nollywood actor, John Okafor, known as Mr Ibu, along with his adopted daughter and alleged girlfriend, have been implicated in a fraudulent scheme involving a staggering N55 million.
This revelation comes amidst Mr Ibu’s battle with a severe illness that has elicited widespread concern and generous donations for his treatment.
The actor’s sons, Onyeabuchi and Valentine, and adopted daughter, Jasmine Okekeagwu, were accused of siphoning money from Mr Ibu’s account, an act that led to their arrest by the Nigerian Police.
According to the police spokesperson, ASP Maiyegun Amina, the trio manipulated Mr Ibu’s phone to transfer the funds, which were intended for the actor’s medical expenses.
This development was confirmed in a press release still circulating at the time of this report.
The actor’s wife, Stella Okafor, through Diamond Wave Law, a legal firm, petitioned the police, leading to the arrest of Oyeabuchi and Jasmine Okekeagwu by the Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department in Ikoyi, Lagos State. They are accused of conspiracy and theft.
Mr Ibu, who has undergone numerous surgeries abroad, including an amputation, has been the recipient of considerable financial support.
Prominent figures like the former President of the Nigerian Senate Bukola Saraki, have been among those contributing to his treatment fund.
The police statement detailed that Mr Ibu initiated a public fund-raising campaign, attracting donations from fans, the entertainment industry, and others into a dedicated bank account.
However, the police investigation uncovered that Onyeabuchi and Jasmine, along with Stella’s alleged manipulation, gained access to Mr Ibu’s phone, reinstalled the banking app, and transferred N55 million from the donations.
Their plan reportedly included fleeing the country amidst the ongoing wave of migration to the UK, known locally as ‘japa’.
Fortunately, the police have managed to recover N50 million from the suspects. They have been charged and appeared before the Chief Magistrate’s Court 1 in Yaba. After being granted bail, the case has been adjourned to March 11, 2024.
This incident casts a shadow over the plight of Mr Ibu, a beloved figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
As he continues to grapple with his health challenges, the alleged actions of his children have added a distressing dimension to his ordeal.
