Mr Ibu cause of death: How did the Nollywood actor and comedian die—
Nollywood comic actor Mr Ibu has died at the age of 62.
Mr Ibu reportedly passed away at Evercare Hospital in Lagos where he was receiving treatment.
Keep reading this article to learn more about the actor, what happened to him, Mr Ibu’s death cause, and more!
Who was Mr Ibu?
John Ikechukwu Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, was a Nigerian actor and comedian.
He was born on October 17, 1961, in Nigeria. He rose to fame two decades ago in the film Mr Ibu – which became his career-long nickname.
It is still regarded as one of the best Nigerian performances in a comic role.
He went on to star in more than 200 Nollywood films – including Keziah, 9 Wives and several Mr Ibu sequels.
Mr Ibu cause of death
Mr Ibu passed away at the age of 62. The cause of his death was revealed to be cardiac arrest.
He had been battling a “strange and dangerous illness” for months, which led to multiple surgeries and eventually the amputation of his leg in November 2023.
His death was confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, Emeka Rollas
“I announce with [a] deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didn’t make it,” Emeka said
Local media say he is survived by his 13 children.
Tributes pour in for Mr Ibu
Following the news of Mr Ibu’s death, several stars shared tributes to him via social media, including Mercy Johnson.
“Rest well, sir,” said actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie in her tribute.
Law professor and former UN rapporteur Joy Ezeilo said the actor was a “beloved” figure who “brought laughter to many”.
Nigeria’s Culture Minister Hannatu Musawa described him as a household name who had made families smile throughout his career.
“Rest well, Mr. Ibu. We will definitely miss you!” Peter of P-Square,wrote in a post on X.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election Obi, in a statement, expressed shock following the sudden demise of the actor.
In a separate statement, the former Anambra state governor also expressed sadness over the death of renowned 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”!
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