By Yinka Akanbi
Nollywood actor, John Okafor, who is professionally known as Mr Ibu, has passed away.
His death came barely 24 hours after another actor, Quadri Oyebamiji, aka Sisi Quadri, passed away in Osun State.
Okafor who had been ill since last year was said to have died after suffering a cardiac arrest on March 2, 2024 in Evercare hospital, Lekki, after being moved to the intensive care unit a few days ago.
The 62-year-old actor had suffered health challenges that led to amputation of his leg in 2023. This was after he had appealed to fans and members of the public to pray for him and render financial assistance to cover his medical bills.
The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, also confirmed his death.
Paying his tributes to the late Okafor, Rollas wrote on his Instagram, “Sad day for the Actors Guild of Nigeria. Kate Henshaw lost her mother earlier today, and Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest, according to his manager of 24 years, Don Nwuzor. I announce with a deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu did not make it. May his soul rest in peace.”
On her part, an actress, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, wrote, “It is well…rest well, sir.”
The Enugu-born actor featured in more than 200 Nollywood movies.
They include Mr Ibu (2004), Mr Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr Ibu in London (2004), Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007), among others.
