The entertainment industry in Nigeria hit with another wave of mourning after receiving the news of the death of Nollywood Comic actor John Okafor popularly called Mr Ibru, this happened 24 hours after another Nollywood actor Sisi Quadri passed away.
Many Nigerians and entertainers alike have reacted to his death. Let us read what some of them have said concerning this.
“We spoke last week” – Chiwetalu Agu mourns late colleague, Mr Ibu, shares last conversation with him
Nollywood veteran Chiwetalu Agu has turned to social media to mourn the passing of his dearest friend, John Okafor, affectionately known as Mr Ibu, and reminisced about their final moments together.
Mr Ibu passed away at an undisclosed hospital in Lagos state, aged 62 after battling an illness which caused him to undergo at least five surgeries.
In the wake of the tragic passing of the beloved actor, Chiwetalu expressed profound grief by sharing a touching video of the actor on his Instagram page, admitting he is still at a loss for words.
Chiwetalu mentioned that they had spoken just last week and Mr. Ibu had assured him that he was getting better.
He recounted how they shared laughter and declared victory over their foes. However, Agu, with a pang of sorrow, added that little did he know it would be their final conversation.
The veteran wished Mr. Ibu eternal rest and expressed his earnest desire for him to find peace in the afterlife.
Chiwetalu, sharing the touching video, wrote;
“Still speechless we spoke last week, u said u were getting better, we laughed and said the enemies have lost, little did I know it’s the last time we would ever talk.,REST IN PEACE KPOKIRIKPO!,HOPE U FIND PEACE TILL WE MEET AGAIN!”
SEE VIDEO AND POST BELOW
Actors Guild of Nigeria president Emeka Rollas, who confirmed his death, stated that he suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday, March 2.
He noted that Mr Ibu’s manager of over 24 years, Don Single Nwuzor, broke the news to him.
“He went through a lot; be careful of polygamy” – Verydarkman reacts to Ibu’s demise.
While reacting to Mr Ibu’s demise, Verydarkman stated that from his analysis, what he had seen of the actor suggested to him that he was already dead. He explained that the actor was only managing to stay alive.
He warned both men and women to steer clear of polygamy due to its disastrous family effect as some of them could be the end of a person.
Verydarkman urged successful men to be cautious of the sort of women that they bring into their lives.
‘We’ll definitely miss you’ – Peter Okoye, others react to death of Mr Ibu
Reacting, Peter Okoye, in a tweet via his X account, said Mr Ibu will be missed.
He wrote, “Rest well Mr Ibu. We will definitely miss you!#RIP.”
The news of the passing away of the comic Actor Mr Ibu is sad and unfortunate - Shehu Sani
On his part, Shehu Sani, a former federal lawmaker, wrote: “The news of the passing away of the comic Actor Mr Ibu is sad and unfortunate. A distinguished artist who made us laugh, smile, and lighten up our lives with his unique talent and humorous creativity. For decades, he has been a delightful spice in our homes and hearts. A great loss to our country and the entertainment industry. May his soul rest in peace.”
A Sad Day For Us In Nollywood And A Sad Day For Nigerians"Actor Dave
In the statement he wrote on Instagram, he said, "A sad day for us in Nollywood and a sad day for Nigerians and Africans. I can't believe that you are gone. A legend is gone. Rest on Ose.
"You fulfilled your purpose on earth, thanks for your immense contribution to the Nigerian movie industry, thanks for making millions of people laugh.
"May the angels guide and guard you to the world beyond. We miss you, Nollywood misses you, Nigeria misses you, boss, Mr. Ibu."
National President, of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas wrote on his Instagram page: “I announce with a deep sense of grief that Mr. Ibu didn’t make it. May his soul rest in peace.”
Actress Iheme Nancy reacted with the sad emoji “chaiiii.”
Actor Kalu Daniel Olaedo wrote: “Oh my goodness God .”
Actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie simply reacted to Mr. Ibu’s death by saying “It is well….Rest well, Sir……”
Actress Ruth Kadiri wrote: “Sleep well, PAPA.”
“May God Almighty forgive his sins and grant him eternal rest. -Peter Obi”
Also mourning Mr Ibu, Obi shared, “Just as I tweeted my condolence on the death of Nollywood actor Sisi Quadri, a lot of people, through my comments section, called my attention to the death of veteran Nollywood actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu.
“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.
“His death is a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry, but to the nation. 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. May God who called him home grant him eternal rest and grant his family, and all of us who mourn him, the fortitude to bear his sad irreplaceable loss. Rest in Peace Mr Ibu! -PO”
Things To Know About Late Actor, Mr Ibu
The veteran Nollywood actor and comedian, hailing from Enugu State, left an indelible mark on the hearts of colleagues and fans alike.
Here are eight key aspects to remember about the life and career of Mr Ibu:
Birth and Early Life: John Ikechukwu Okafor was born on October 17, 1961, marking the beginning of a journey that would see him become a beloved figure in the Nigerian entertainment scene.
Actor and Comedian: Mr Ibu was not only a talented actor but also a renowned comedian, captivating audiences with his unique brand of humor and charisma.
Breakthrough Film: His rise to prominence came in 2004 with the release of the movie "Mr Ibu," which showcased his comedic prowess alongside fellow actor Osita Iheme.
Prolific Career: Throughout his illustrious career, Okafor starred in over 200 Nollywood films, including memorable titles such as "Mr. Ibu and His Son," "Coffin Producers," "Husband Suppliers," "International Players," and "Mr. Ibu in London," among many others.
Venture Into Music: In a testament to his versatility, Mr Ibu ventured into the music scene in 2020, releasing two singles titled "This Girl" and "Do You Know."
Social Commentary: Beyond entertainment, Mr Ibu was not afraid to voice his opinions on societal issues. In 2012, he called for an end to homosexuality in Nollywood, likening it to a virus.
Educational Background: Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Mr Ibu remained grounded in education, graduating from the Institute of Management and Technology in Enugu State.
Legacy: John Okafor's passing on March 2, 2024, marked the end of an era. He left behind a rich legacy of laughter and entertainment, remembered fondly by generations of fans.