RIP: Popular Nollywood actor Mr Ibu is dead
Veteran Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu is dead.
The iconic actor breathed his last on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at a hospital in Nigeria.
Mr Ibu’s passing comes as a shock to his legion of fans, who have followed his illustrious career spanning decades.
The actor, renowned for his comedic prowess and unforgettable performances, had endeared himself to audiences both at home and away.
The actor has been in hospital since September, 2023.
In December 2023, concerns about Mr Ibu’s health had surfaced after his family issued a statement regarding his condition.
Despite reassurances of his well-being following an amputation procedure, it appears that the actor’s health struggles ultimately took their toll.
The statement released by the family shed light on Mr Ibu’s health challenges, revealing that the amputation was necessitated by severe clotting of blood in his leg, coupled with other underlying conditions.
“The first amputation didn’t completely correct his health predicament so the doctors had to go ahead to amputate the same leg further to ensure we didn’t lose him,” the statement read.
Despite undergoing medical interventions, including multiple surgeries, the actor’s health continued to deteriorate.
“Daddy’s cause of sickness is also not diabetes but he’s had constant clotting of the blood in his leg (diseased blood vessels) and other health challenges posing risk to his life, therefore the need for the amputation,” the family statement highlighted.
Following the initial amputation, Mr Ibu’s health did not witness significant improvement, prompting further medical interventions.
Despite efforts to manage his condition, including specialised care from healthcare professionals, the actor succumbed to his ailments, leaving behind a legacy that will endure through his body of work.
Mr Ibu’s contributions to the Nigerian film industry, particularly in the realm of comedy, have left an indelible mark.
The actor’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and industry peers, who fondly remember him for his talent, humor, and larger-than-life persona.
May his soul rest in peace!