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Tag: MR IBU

  • Family announces burial date for Mr Ibu

    Family announces burial date for Mr Ibu

    The family of John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has announced the burial date for the late veteran Nollywood actor.

    According to a statement signed by the late actor’s brother, Sunday Okafor, Mr Ibu will be buried on June 28, 2024 in his hometown of Amuri, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

    “The Okafor family in Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West LGA in Enugu State wishes to honour the loving memory of our hero and a legend, who even in death has left a legacy of love, laughter and liveliness.

    “We will appreciate your esteemed presence as we lay our son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and in-law to rest on June 28, 2024. Kindly join us as we share the best and last moments with our icon,” the statement reads.

    The statement said the burial ceremony would begin on Tuesday, June 25th with a high profiled novelty match, while on Wednesday, June 26, there would be a session called Mr Ibu’s Night, which would involve candlelight procession and live entertainment.

    On June 27, a Christian Wake would be held at his compound in Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West while the funeral service takes place on June 28.

    The 5-day burial ceremony will be wrapped up on Sunday, 30th June, with a Church Thanksgiving for family members, friends and well wishers.

    Recall that Mr Ibu, born John Ikechukwu Okafor on October 17, 1961, following a protracted illness, died March 2, 2024 at the age of 62.

    Okafor acted in more than 200 Nollywood movies. He also ventured into music, just for a short period. On Oct. 15, 2020, he released his songs titled “This girl” and “Do you know”.

    He was  well known for the  ‘Mr. Ibu series’, which included Mr. Ibu (2004), Mr. Ibu 2 (2005), Mr. Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr. Ibu in London (2005).

    Some of his iconic films include Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).

  • How Mr Ibu’s humour promoted peace, unity in Africa – Manager

    How Mr Ibu’s humour promoted peace, unity in Africa – Manager

    Mr Dominic Nwuzor, manager of Nollywood comic actor,  John Okafor,  a.k.a  ‘Mr Ibu’, says the late  comedian used humour  to promote peace and unity across Africa.

    Nwuzor, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Don Singles International (DSI), stated this in an interview on Sunday in Abuja.

    The DSI helmsman recounted how Mr Ibu used his craft and popularity to make people happy, build bridges, reconciling warring communities across the continent.

    Nwuzor said the late veteran comedian was given several honours and recognitions by leaders and communities across Africa during his lifetime.

    “I remember vividly, how two warring tribes in Ghana came together for the first time because of John’s performance and he  ended up reconciling them.

    “He was thereafter given a Chieftaincy title as the ‘Malangula I of Tamale Land’, meaning the peacemaker, and I was named the ‘Ngulala’, meaning the mouthpiece of the peacemaker.

    “When we went to Botswana, he held the Nigerian flag when we landed to show how proud and patriotic he was because they were hearing a lot of negative things about Nigeria then.

    “He was a man I would say made Africans laughed and was held in high esteem like a people’s leader across Africa,” he said.

    According to him, DSI as a foremost showbiz company in Nigeria, managed the late superstar for over two decades and was part of his entertainment expedition across Africa and beyond.

    He said Mr Ibu’s  ability  to evoke laughter with his natural wit, made him  fans favourite all over Africa and acclaimed as  one of the continent’s   beloved comic actors of all time.

    “Mr Ibu, as John was popularly known, was not just an actor, but Nollywood ambassador that used his talent and humour to promote peace, happiness and unity among Africans.

    “I signed John in 2004, and then our relationship grew beyond that of business to become that of friendship as we have become so close till his death.

    “The deal started with first two years, and I did not bother him with the aspects of Nigerian movies,  so  he  could deal with anyone on Nigerian  movies.

    “But for anything   concerning   international  showbiz, I have to discuss with the promoters on the basic access requirements and then we would move.

    “There was no airport, especially in Africa, where  crowd of fans would not gather to welcome John, and that was how I realised his popularity outside the shores of Nigeria.

    “I can tell you that he was even more celebrated in countries like Ghana, South Africa ,Kenya, Tanzania, Gambia, Garbon, Botswana  and he always held the Nigerian flag showing his love  for his country,” he said.

    According to him, the late thespian used his craft to project Nigeria in a positive light to the world, especially in countries that have heard negative stories about the country.

    “Then, John was one of the positive things other countries wanted to hear about Nigeria and everybody looked forward to meet him, including presidents of nations.

    “For example, even a two-year-old child in Ghana  knows Mr Ibu  , and one thing about him was  his friendliness and  originality, as  everything he does is just himself and  does not  copy  anyone.

    “Foreigners   fell in love with Nigeria through John and wanted to visit the country   because of him, as we got calls from even the Caribbean,” he said.

    He therefore urged the Federal Government to immortalise the late actor, and should be given a posthumous national honour for using talent and humour to promote Nigeria’s image during his lifetime.

    NAN reports that John Okafor, born on October 17, 1961 in Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State, acclaimed to have appeared in over 200 Nollywood films.

    He was  well known for the  ‘Mr. Ibu series’, which included Mr. Ibu (2004), Mr. Ibu 2 (2005), Mr. Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr. Ibu in London (2005).

    Some of his iconic films include Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).

  • Nollywood filmmakers, fans pay tribute to veteran actor, John Okafor

    Nollywood filmmakers, fans pay tribute to veteran actor, John Okafor

    Filmmakers, industry watcher and fans of Nollywood have continued to pay tributes to the late veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.

    Okafor who had been ill since 2023 reportedly died of cardiac arrest at 62 on Saturday in Evercare hospital in Lekki, Lagos State.

    Industry stakeholders, eminent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, were among those who have mourned the late thespian.

    However, amidst the shock, fans and filmmakers, especially those that have worked closely with Okafor, have extolled the life and times of the comic actor in the Nigerian film industry.

    While some continued to buzz social media with posts of scintillating memories of the actor, others who spoke with NAN on Sunday said his exit has created a vast vacuum in the entertainment Industry.

    Blessing Ebigieson, National President of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), said although Nollywood was currently mourning, the passion and resilience of the late actor would not be forgotten in hurry.

    “Mr Ibu fought to stay alive, his friends also fought for him, everyone donated to make sure that he stayed alive but when God says it is time, nothing one can do.

    “It would have been fine if he stayed alive after all the stress and pains he went through, but who am I to question God.

    “We have lost a veteran and this is very heartbreaking to us; may his soul rest in peace.

    “I pray his family come together as one in this trying period and let the man rest in peace,” she said.

    Also, Emma Eyaba, Chairman of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) FCT chapter, said the late actor played key role in the progressive trajectory of Nigerian film industry and would be greatly missed.

    He said Okafor was passionate with his job even in his down-moments, adding that he was supposed to feature in the sequel of the 2001 Nollywood classic ‘Issakaba’, where he was among the cast.

    “You know he has been away from the public for some time now as he was recuperating and still receiving treatment.

    “He was trying to get himself back before that attack came again, and unfortunately we lost him.

    “He was supposed to be part of shooting of ‘Issakaba’ , a film in which he featured 23 years ago, but because ill health, we could not even have access to him,”he said.

    The late actor’s fan on X (formerly twitter) @Adele_lide said : “Rip to the finest actor of all time.You made our childhood memorable.

    Also, @Probal_Labs wrote: “This is a major loss. Amazing childhood memories watching his movies.May his soul rest in peace.”

    Another fan, @Kontrolla19 wrote: “The mostfunniest man in Nigeria is dead.RIP legend.”

    NAN reports that John Okafor, born on October 17, 1961 in Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State, was an actor, singer and comedian, acclaimed to have appeared in over 200 Nollywood films.

    He is well known for the ‘Mr. Ibu series’, which include Mr. Ibu (2004), Mr. Ibu 2 (2005), Mr. Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr. Ibu in London (2005).

    Some of his iconic films include Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).

    Okafor also ventured into music for a short period of time, as he released his debute songs titled “This girl” and “Do you know” in October 2020.

    In October 2023,Okafor revealed that he was suffering from an ailment that threatened to make it necessary to amputate one of his legs.

    He said he was struck by the problem while on a movie set with other actors, and appealed to his fans and the public for prayers and financial assistance to cover his medical bills.

    In November 2023, he underwent a leg amputation, as his family said the amputation was done to keep him alive and increase his chances of recovery..

  • What Nigerians are saying about the death of Mr Ibu

    What Nigerians are saying about the death of Mr Ibu

    Mr Peter Obi, 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has  mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Mr John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.

    This is even as filmmakers, industry watcher and fans of Nollywood continue to pay tributes to the late veteran actor.

    Recall Mr Ibu died on Saturday, March 2, aged 62. The death  of the comic actor was announced by Emeka Rollas, National President, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) on his Instagram page on Saturday.

    Rollas said  that Mr Ibu suffered a cardiac arrest according to his manager of 24 years, Mr Don Single Nwuzor.

    In a condolence message posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Obi stated that Mr Ibu’s death was a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry but to the nation.

    “His death is very saddening. He was one legendary comic actor who embodied laughter, exuded joy, and spread happiness.

    “When sadly he took ill, we all prayed for his quick recovery and hoped he would bounce back in good health.

    “Those artists who lighten the mood of the nation also perform a great task of helping us all to weather the dark storms of life.

    “On behalf of my family, I commiserate with his bereaved family, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, who just lost two legendary actors within a few days, and the entire Nollywood family.

    “We share the pains of his death, but are comforted by the cherished moments of joy and happiness he left behind,” he wrote.

    Meanwhile, Nollywood veteran actor, Kenneth Okonkwo  has also mourned the death of  Mr Ibu.

    Okonkwo, a renowned actor, lawyer and chieftain of the Labour Party,  took his Instagram page @iamkennethokonkwo to bid Mr Ibu  farewell, saying  he has lost a friend, brother and colleague.

    He said that Ibu  started his acting  career under his watch, adding that it was painful to bid him goodbye.

    According to him, Mr Ibu captured the world with his  splendid performance in comedy, by carving his own unique path in Nollywood and succeeded on his own peculiar terms at his own pace.

    “Farewell to John Okafor (Ibu), just lost a friend, brother and colleague. His footprint will remain indelible on the sands of Nollywood.

    ”May his soul rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing,” he wrote.

    Nollywood  filmmakers, fans pay tribute to Mr Ibu

    Industry stakeholders, eminent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, are among those who have  mourned the late thespian.

    However, amidst the shock, fans and filmmakers, especially those that have worked closely with Okafor,  have extolled the life and times of the comic actor in the Nigerian film industry.

    While some continued to buzz social media with posts of scintillating memories of the actor, others who spoke on Sunday said his exit has created a vast vacuum in the entertainment Industry.

    Blessing Ebigieson, National President of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), said although Nollywood was currently mourning, the passion and resilience of the late actor would not be forgotten in hurry.

    “Mr Ibu fought to stay alive, his friends also fought for him, everyone donated to make sure that he stayed alive but when God says it is time, nothing one can do.

    “It would have been fine if he stayed alive after all the stress and pains he went through, but who am I to question God.

    “We have lost a veteran and this is very heartbreaking to us; may his soul rest in peace.

    “I pray his family come together as one in this trying period and let the man rest in peace,” she said.

    Also, Emma Eyaba, Chairman of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) FCT chapter, said the late actor played key role in the progressive trajectory of Nigerian film industry and would be greatly missed.

    He said  Okafor was passionate with his job even in his down-moments, adding that he was supposed to feature in the sequel of the 2001 Nollywood classic ‘Issakaba’, where he was among the cast.

    “You know he has been away from the public for some time now as he was recuperating and still receiving treatment.

    “He was trying to get himself back before that attack came again, and unfortunately we lost him.

    “He was supposed to be part of shooting of ‘Issakaba’ , a film in which he featured  23 years ago, but because  ill health, we could not even have access to him,”he said.

    The late actor’s  fan on  X (formerly twitter) @Adele_lide said : “Rip to the finest actor of all time.You made our childhood memorable.

    Also, @Probal_Labs wrote: “This is a major loss. Amazing childhood memories watching his movies.May his soul rest in peace.”

    Another fan, @Kontrolla19 wrote: “The mostfunniest man in Nigeria is dead.RIP legend.”

    More tributes for Nollywood icon late Mr Ibu

    Meanwhile, more tributes continue to pour in for the late Nollywood icon.

    Some Nollywood stars continue to pay tribute to Mr John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu following his passing.

    Actor Ime Bishop Umoh wrote, “My dear friend and brother John, your valor in the battle of life was unmatched.

    “Your humor, so elite and effortless, lit up our world like a beacon.’ What a humor smith you were! The memories we shared are etched in our hearts and minds, immortalising you even as you rest.

    “Thank you brother, may you slumber peacefully Mr Ibu. Live on. forever big brother,  go make the angels laugh.”

    Comedian actor Bovi Ugboma wrote, “The passing of John Okafor aka Mr Ibu is asadd chapter in Nigerian entertainment history. Let’s take solace in the fact that his work will live and will inspire generations unborn. RIP  to one of the great”.

    Veteran actor Babajide Kosoko wrote, “Goodbye Mr Ibu, you have done your bit . God knows best”.
    Actress Funke Akindele  wrote, “Uncle  John!!! May his soul rest in peace”.

    Mercy Johnson Okojie wrote, ” It is well…..Rest well sir.

    Patience Ozokwo wrote, ” Where O death is your victory? Where I death is your sting? 1 Corinthians 15 vs 55, no more pain, no more sorrow, no more noise, everlasting peace.

    Osuofia Nkem Owoh wrote, ” Gone from our sights but never from our hearts. We hold you close in our thoughts. RIP Mr Ibu.

    Zubby Michael wrote,” Alumelu.

    Destiny Etiko wrote, ” This shouldn’t be true. This guy me differently. God RIP our legend.

    Chizzy Alichi wrote, “Words fail me. I prayed and hoped that it was all rumour. Rest well.

    Mike Ezurounye wrote,” People should just learn humility because this life hmmmmRest in peace.

    Born John Okafor on October 17, 1961 in Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State, Mr Ibu was an actor, singer and comedian, acclaimed to have appeared in over 200 Nollywood films.

    He is well known for the ‘Mr. Ibu series’, which include Mr. Ibu (2004), Mr. Ibu 2 (2005), Mr. Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr. Ibu in London (2005).

    Some of his iconic films include Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).

    Okafor also ventured into music for a short period of time, as he released his debute songs titled “This girl” and “Do you know” in October 2020.

    In October 2023,Okafor  revealed that he was suffering from an ailment that threatened to make it necessary to amputate one of his legs.

    He said he was struck by the problem while on a movie set with other actors, and appealed to his fans and the public for prayers and financial assistance to cover his medical bills.

    In November 2023, he underwent a leg amputation, as his  family said the amputation was done to keep him alive and increase his chances of recovery.

  • Amid mourning, Mr Ibu’s adopted daughter, Jasmine renames actor’s Tiktok account

    Amid mourning, Mr Ibu’s adopted daughter, Jasmine renames actor’s Tiktok account

    As the Nation continues to mourn the passing of Nollywood actor, Mr Ibu, his adopted daughter, Jasmine, has changed his personal Tiktok account of over 1 million followers to her own name.

    A check on the late actor’s Tiktok page on Sunday by DAILY POST revealed that the account has now been renamed to @LadyJasminec_live.

    Jasmine also appeared to have deleted all the late actor’s videos except the ones featuring her.

    The development has sparked uproar on social media, with fans of the late actor berating Jasmine of “tampering” with his legacy.

    The actor passed away on Saturday night, weeks after returning from hospital following successful surgeries that led to amputation of one of his legs.

    The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Dr Emeka Rollas, who confirmed his death, said he died of cardiac arrest.

     

  • Tinubu mourns Nollywood actors Mr Ibu, Sisi Quadri

    Tinubu mourns Nollywood actors Mr Ibu, Sisi Quadri

    President Bola Tinubu has received with deep sadness, the news of the passing of two of Nigeria’s ace comic actors, John Okafor, famously known as Mr Ibu, and Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri.

    This is contained in a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, on Sunday in Abuja.

    Ngelale said that Tinubu consoled with the families of “these gifted thespians who brought joy and relief to millions of Nigerians by the exercise of their geniuses”.

    He said that the President urged the bereaved to take solace in the truth that though these beloved Nigerians have passed on, they lived through their works which would remain an inspiration and a fount of good cheer for many.

    ”The President also commiserates with the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), and the entire creative community, assuring them of his support, thoughts, and prayers in this time of grief.

    ”President Tinubu prays for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and comfort for all those in mourning.”

  • Mr Ibu can now have that which eluded him – Charles Inojie

    Mr Ibu can now have that which eluded him – Charles Inojie

    Popular comic actor and Nollywood movie director, Charles Inojie has broken his silence on the demise of John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Emeka Rollas, President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) confirmed the death of Mr Ibu on Saturday.

    Inojie, left distraught by the death of his co-comic actor and bosom friend, penned a poetic message via his official Instagram handle.

    “Rest in peace, king. Yes, you can have it all now. That which eluded you the most. When it mattered the most. PEACE.

    “The peace of mind to recuperate peacefully was a gift too expensive to offer you. Now, it’s all yours, bro. Revel in heavenly peace, infinitum. Rest… Rest… Rest in PEACE,” Inojie wrote on the passing of Mr Ibu.

    Recall Mr Ibu and Inojie both share fond memories together. They have both featured in countless Nollywood movies together.

    When Mr Ibu was hospitalised and eventually had one of his legs amputated, they both still found the occasion to crack jokes.

    Mr Ibu’s death, one too many – Musawa

    Meanwhile, the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has expressed sadness over the death of Mr Ibu.

    The Minister, in a statement through her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Anibeze, described the occurence as “one death, too many”.

    Musawa said this was coming just 24 hours after the death of yet another Nollywood actor, Sisi Quadri.

    “I’m deeply shocked at too many deaths occurring at the same time. Mr Ibu was a household name who made families happy throughout his acting career.

    “His death at this time is very unfortunate and a sad one for us all in the entertainment industry.

    “We will sorely miss him. May his soul est in peace,” she said.

  • Cause of Mr Ibu’s death revealed

    Cause of Mr Ibu’s death revealed

    President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Emeka Rollas has revealed the cause of death of John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Mr Ibu died in the early hours of Saturday at Evercare hospital located at Lekki Phase 1 in Lagos State.

    According to Rollas, Mr Ibu’s manager for 24 years, Mr Don Single Nwuzor confirmed the demise of the iconic Nollywood actor to him.

    The AGN President disclosed that Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest while receiving treatment at the hospital and did not make it.

    He mentioned that Nigerian actress, Kate Henshaw lost her mother earlier in the day, prompting a sad day for the Guild.

    “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.

    ALSO READ || How late John Okafor earned the name Mr Ibu

    “I announce with deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didn’t make it. May his soul rest in peace,” Rollas disclosed via Instagram.

    TNG reports cardiac arrest is when the heart stops beating suddenly, resulting in lack of blood circulation.

    The lack of blood circulation to the brain and other organs can cause a person to lose consciousness, become disabled or die.

  • How late John Okafor got the name Mr Ibu

    How late John Okafor got the name Mr Ibu

    Mr Ibu died in the early hours of Saturday at Evercare hospital located at Lekki Phase 1 in Lagos State.

    Mr Ibu had been bedridden and was receiving treatment at the hospital before his sad demise, aged 62.

    Born John Okafor, Mr Ibu became an item from a role the late Nollywood veteran played in one of his famous movies, titled Mr Ibu.

    He became famous for the name Mr Ibu from the Mr Ibu movie, which became a hit, and which he starred alongside Osita Iheme, popularly known as Pawpaw.

    The late iconic Nigerian actor known for his comedic roles in Nollywood films had earlier adopted the name Mr Ibu from his grandfather.

    In an interview in 2018, he said at the time: “I have always been called Ibu from childhood. My grandfather bore the name too and I took after him.

    “When we began shooting Mr Ibu in 2004, we titled the film John Ibu Okafor and after some time, we changed it from Mr. John Ibu to John Okafor. I later settled for Mr Ibu and the name stuck after the film became a hit.

    “I inherited my comic side from my grandfather. He was a better actor, a better comedian than me. He died in 1971”.

    Mr Ibu’s unique style and infectious humour set him apart and endeared him to audiences worldwide.

    Born on October 17, 1961, Mr Ibu hailed from Umunekwu village in Eziokwe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria.

    However, after his primary education and the sudden demise of his father, he relocated to Sapele, Delta State, where he stayed with his brother.

    Upon completing his secondary education, it was gathered that Mr Ibu left Sapele for Adamawa State, which at the time was known as Gongola State.

    He eventually returned to Enugu, and then back to Delta before eventually moving to Lagos State when all else to pursue formal education failed.

    It was in Lagos Mr Ibu got the chance to pursue his career and establish himself as an actor.

  • BREAKING: Nollywood Actor, Mr Ibu is dead

    BREAKING: Nollywood Actor, Mr Ibu is dead

    Reports from multiple sources have it that Nigerian actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu has reportedly passed on.

    Several sources confirmed that Mr Ibu died at Evercare hospital located at Lekki Phase 1 in Lagos State, where he was receiving treatment.

    ALSO READ || How late John Okafor got the name Mr Ibu

    Recall the veteran Nollywood actor revealed last October he was suffering from an ailment that threatened to amputate one of his legs.

    Mr Ibu disclosed he was struck by the problem while on a movie set with other Nollywood actors and actresses.

    In November 2023, he eventually underwent the amputation.

    His family said at the time that the amputation was done to keep him alive and increase his chances of survival.

    In December 2023, Mr Ibu underwent another amputation on the same leg amputated before. Since then, he had been on the sickbed.

    However, his health status subsequently deteriorated when it was reported that he could hardly talk again.

    Meanwhile, details of his demise are still sketchy at the time of filing this report.

    ALSO READ || How late John Okafor got the name Mr Ibu

    The death of Mr Ibu is coming barely a day after the death of another Nollywood actor, Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri.

     

    Details shortly…