Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria, joined the nation in mourning the loss of veteran Nollywood actor, Mr. John Okafor, fondly known as Mr. Ibu, who passed away at the age of 62 on Saturday, March 2.
The tragic news of Mr. Ibu’s demise was confirmed by Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), who revealed that the beloved comic actor suffered a fatal cardiac arrest, as reported by his manager of 24 years, Mr. Don Single Nwuzor.
Expressing his condolences via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Peter Obi lamented the significant loss not only to the entertainment industry but to the entire nation. He described Mr. Ibu as a legendary comic actor who brought laughter, joy, and happiness to audiences nationwide. Obi highlighted the vital role played by artists like Mr. Ibu in uplifting spirits during challenging times.
Kenneth Okonkwo, a respected actor, lawyer, and Labour Party chieftain, also paid tribute to Mr. Ibu on his Instagram page, bidding farewell to a friend, brother, and colleague. Okonkwo reminisced about Mr. Ibu’s impactful contributions to Nollywood, noting his unique comedic talent that left an indelible mark on the industry.
Mr. Ibu’s battle with illness became public knowledge in October 2023 when he revealed his struggles and the possibility of undergoing leg amputation. Despite undergoing the procedure in November 2023, Mr. Ibu’s health continued to deteriorate, ultimately leading to his untimely passing.
The passing of Mr. Ibu leaves a void in the hearts of his colleagues, fans, and the entire Nollywood community. His legacy as an iconic figure in Nigerian entertainment will be remembered fondly, with tributes pouring in from across the industry as his memory lives on.
Quest: Cris-Edesiri Odjomah