It is a time of sorrow for the Nollywood community and fans as veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, is finally laid to rest.
The beloved actor passed away in March after battling a prolonged illness. His death, confirmed by the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, was attributed to cardiac arrest.
On Wednesday, a night of tribute was held in honor of Mr. Ibu, attended by many of his colleagues. The solemn event saw his wife and children paying their final respects, visibly grief-stricken by the loss of their beloved family member.
Today, June 27th, Mr. Ibu is being laid to rest in his hometown of Enugu State. Videos and photos circulating online depict a somber atmosphere as attendees gather to bid farewell to the iconic actor. The community and his colleagues wore solemn expressions, reflecting the profound impact Mr. Ibu had on their lives.
Last October, Mr. Ibu publicly sought help as he battled a serious ailment. Prominent figures, including musicians Davido and P-Square, social media influencer Tunde Ednut, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki, rallied to support him. Despite undergoing seven successful surgeries and facing the hardship of having his leg amputated twice, Mr. Ibu’s health continued to decline. He lost his voice during his illness and was discharged from the hospital in January, much to the joy of his fans. However, this relief was short-lived, as he passed away two months later.
Mr. Ibu’s passing has left a significant void in the Nollywood industry. Known for his comedic prowess and memorable performances, he brought joy to many and made lasting contributions to Nigerian cinema. His legacy will continue to live on through his films and the memories he created for his fans.
As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life and achievements of Mr. Ibu, a true icon of Nollywood.
Also Read: Mr Ibu’s Widow Stella Maris Makes First Public Statement After His Death
