By Agbeze IK Onuma
Mr Ibu, the beloved Nollywood actor, passed away at the age of 62 in Lagos, Nigeria. His death was attributed to a cardiac arrest, a condition where the heart suddenly stops beating effectively.
John Okafor, affectionately known as Mr Ibu, was more than an actor; he was a beacon of laughter, a maestro of mirth. His comedic genius transcended screens, filling our hearts with joy and our lives with light. Today, as we bid farewell to this legend, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.
Mr Ibu didn’t merely act; he wove laughter into the fabric of our existence. His expressions, his timing—each punchline a symphony of chuckles. Whether he played the bumbling fool or the witty sage, he had us in stitches. His laughter was contagious, a healing elixir for weary souls.
Nigerians across all regions and divide mourns, for Mr Ibu was not just an actor; he was a national treasure. His antics weren’t frivolous; they were essential. Amidst chaos and uncertainty, he gifted us moments of respite. His laughter echoed through crowded cinemas, humble living rooms, and bustling streets. He was our collective chuckle, our shared delight.
As we grieve, let us remember the joy he sowed. Let us honor his memory by sharing laughter, by being kinder, by embracing life’s absurdities. May God cradle him in eternal peace, and may his family find solace in the memories we hold dear.
A Personal Note:
I confess, I am not much of a Nollywood fan. But my wife is. She would sit on the couch or on the bed, eyes glued to the screen, as Mr Ibu spun his magic. His slapstick humor, exaggerated gestures, and infectious laughter became part of our home. The house often echoed with her giggles, and I’d catch glimpses of Mr Ibu’s antics from the edge of my eyes. He, alongside many other Nollywood actors, was her escape, her dose of levity after long days.
And oh, how he created patterns! Those comic jests—like old friends—wove themselves into our lives. “Mr Ibu moments” became commonplace. When life threw curveballs, we’d mimic his expressions, and suddenly, the weight lifted. His legacy wasn’t confined to the silver screen; it danced in our living room, lingered in our conversations. Other constants like Mr. Sabinus, modelled themselves after Ibu’s classy antics and gestures.
So, Mr Ibu, thank you. Thank you for bridging gaps, for making us laugh when the world felt heavy. Your laughter was a bridge across generations, a language understood by all. You’ve left a void, but also a treasure trove of memories. Rest in Peace, dear sir. May your laughter echo through eternity.
©️ Agbeze Ireke Kalu Onuma, AI-KO
March 4 2024
kmekonint@yahoo.com
Lagos
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