Eziokwe Amuri, Enugu State, Nigeria – Today, the beloved Nollywood actor John Okafor, famously known as Mr. Ibu, is being laid to rest in his hometown of Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State. Mr. Ibu passed away on March 2, 2024, after a courageous battle with illness.
“The Okafor family of Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West LGA, Enugu State, wishes to honor the loving memory of our hero and legend,” stated Mr. Ibu’s brother, Sunday Okafor. “Even in death, he leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and liveliness.”
A Public Fight for Health
Mr. Ibu’s health struggles became public in October 2023 when he posted a video on social media requesting prayers from his fans. He disclosed a “strange and dangerous illness” that left him hospitalized and facing the possibility of leg amputation.
“As I speak to you, I am still lying in the hospital,” Mr. Ibu said weakly from his hospital bed. “The medical director says the best solution, if his new idea doesn’t work, is to amputate my leg.”
His adopted daughter, Jasmine Okafor, also reached out on social media, seeking support for her father’s treatment abroad.
“For the past two weeks, daddy has been very ill,” Jasmine revealed. “We’ve been doing everything humanly possible, but he’s not getting any better. Some days, it seems he’s improving, but other days, it looks like he’s getting worse.”
This wasn’t Mr. Ibu’s first public health battle. In March 2022, he announced that he had suffered from food poisoning.
Following the October 2023 video, an outpouring of support flooded in from many Nigerians, who generously donated to help cover his medical expenses. Despite undergoing seven surgeries, doctors were forced to amputate his leg in November 2023.
A Life of Laughter and Entertainment
Born John Ikechukwu Okafor in October 1961, Mr. Ibu was a versatile entertainer. He captivated audiences as an actor, stand-up comedian, and MC, bringing joy to people across Nigeria and beyond.
Mr. Ibu’s extensive filmography includes hundreds of Nollywood movies, notably the iconic “Mr. Ibu” series. His impeccable comedic timing and signature facial expressions left audiences in stitches. He was also renowned for his energetic dance moves and witty humor.
Before his rise to fame, Mr. Ibu held various jobs to support himself and his family, including roles as a football coach, karate practitioner, and boxer.
Mr. Ibu was married twice and had children from both marriages. His family, friends, and countless fans are mourning his loss. However, his legacy as a comedic genius who brought laughter and light to the world will undoubtedly endure.
