Nollywood actor John Okafor alias Mr Ibu has died aged 62.
His death was confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria Emeka Rollas, who said Mr Ibu died of cardiac arrest.
In a statement on Saturday, March 2, 2023, Rollas said that Mr Ibu had suffered cardiac arrest during the day and was rushed to hospital where he died.
"Sad Day for Actors Guild of Nigeria. Kate Henshaw lost her mother earlier today and Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest according to his manager for 24 years Mr Don Single Nwuzor. I announce with deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didn't make it. May his soul rest in peace," Rollas stated.
In November 2023, his family appealed for financial help as the actor underwent seven surgeries, according to a statement shared through his Instagram account.
“As of 1 pm, noon today, Daddy has gone through 7 successful surgeries but to keep him alive and increase his chances of recovery one of his legs had to be amputated.,” the statement read in parts
“This development has been hard on us all but we’ve had to accept it as Daddy’s new reality to keep him alive.”
The family has also appealed to Nigerians to support the actor.
“Please we are still soliciting support from well-meaning Nigerians at this stage Daddy is still one very delicate one and he needs all the help he can get.
“Thank you, everyone, the Okafor family is grateful and we don’t take you for granted. In due time, Daddy will personally acknowledge everyone who supported him during this period as soon as he’s stable!”
According to Mr Ibu, he had been in the hospital for some weeks and the doctors said they would have to cut off his leg if their next line of action does not work out.
“I have been down for so many weeks. All I am hoping for Is your prayers and assistance, as I speak to you I am still lying down at the hospital. The medical director of this hospital said that the best solution is in case his new idea doesn’t work, the best idea is to cut off my leg,” he said.
Mr Ibu's career
Mr Ibu featured in more than 200 Nollywood films including Mr Ibu (2004), Mr Ibu 2 (2005), Mr Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr Ibu in London (2005), Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).
On 15 October 2020, Mr Ibu released his songs titled 'This Girl' and 'Do You Know'.
