A popular actor, John Okafor, aka Mr Ibu, was a beloved figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, particularly known for his comedic talent.
Until his demise on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the age of 62, Mr Ibu was undoubtedly one of the most popular comic actors in Africa. He was particularly successful at his craft, because he did not even have to utter a word before he made people laugh. His facial expressions were oftentimes enough to leave people in stitches.
Humble beginnings
Born on October 17, 1961, in Umunekwu, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria, he overcame humble beginnings to rise to the pinnacle of his career.
He attended the Institute of Management and Technology in Enugu, Nigeria. He moved to Sapele, Delta State, in 1974 to live with his brother. There, he engaged in various menial jobs to support himself and his family. At different times, he worked as a hairstylist, photographer, and was employed in a crate-producing company, showcasing his versatility and determination to succeed.
Becoming Mr Ibu
Mr Ibu’s comedic prowess endeared him to audiences across Africa, with his iconic facial expressions and jokes leaving lasting impressions on people across the continent and even beyond.
His breakout moment came in 2004 with the movie, ‘Mr Ibu’, which spawned several sequels and cemented his status as a comedic icon.
Beyond his comedic roles, Mr Ibu also bridged divides within the Nigerian film industry, venturing into Kannywood and earning respect in northern Nigeria for his contributions.
Health struggles
In the latter stage of his life, Mr Ibu faced serious health challenges that eventually led to his death. In October 2023, he revealed his struggle with diabetes. A month later, his leg was amputated after enduring seven surgeries. Despite undergoing several surgeries and treatments, his health continued to deteriorate.
His family took to social media to solicit for funds to clear his medical bills. This was responded to by several Nigerians and organisations, who contributed different sums of money for his treatment.
However, that was not the first time he would be having health challenges. Some years earlier, he had allegedly being poisoned on different occasions.
Family woes
Okafor was allegedly married five times, most of which ended in bitter divorces.
He was said to have married his last wife, Stella Maris, who hails from Mbaise, Imo State, because of her culinary skills and acting talent. The couple reportedly began dating around 1998, tied the knot in 2010, and celebrated their white wedding in 2015.
Prior to his death, he described his marriage to Stella Maris as the worst of them all.
He had said in an interview, “This is my final marriage. If this one falls apart, I won’t marry again. This is my fifth and the worst marriage.”
Meanwhile, Stella Maris had always accused his adopted daughter, Jasmine, of having an affair with him and trying to take her place as his wife.
After his fans had donated money for his operation, his wife had the actor’s son, Daniel, and Jasmine arrested on the suspicion of hacking into his phone and taking $60,700 (£47,800) for themselves. They were however cleared of the charges.
Mr Ibu is believed to have had 13 children—11 sons and two daughters.
Political stance and controversy
Aside from his comedic character, Mr Ibu was known for expressing his thoughts on political issues.
Before the 2023 presidential election, the actor sparked controversy by endorsing Bola Tinubu for the presidency, angering some of his fans. Despite his initial endorsement, Mr Ibu later supported the People’s Democratic Party’s candidate, Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as a father figure in his life.
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