Beloved Nigerian comic actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, has died at the age of 62. The veteran entertainer passed away in a hospital, as confirmed by Vanguard Nigeria. The cause of death has not yet been made public.

Mr. Ibu had been battling severe health challenges for months leading up to his death. In October 2023, his family revealed that the actor had undergone multiple surgeries due to a “strange and dangerous illness” that had kept him hospitalized for weeks.

During that period, Mr. Ibu made a heartfelt appeal for public support, launching a fundraiser to help cover his medical expenses in Lagos. Despite some signs of recovery and a low-key birthday celebration in the hospital, his health continued to deteriorate.

On November 6, 2023, the actor underwent a leg amputation — a decision his family described as “difficult but necessary” to improve his prognosis. By December 17, his family disclosed that doctors had deemed him “Not Fit To Fly”, preventing efforts to transport him abroad for advanced treatment.

The illness, according to the family, stemmed from a chronic blood clot in his leg due to damaged blood vessels, and not from diabetes as initially speculated.

In January 2024, after being discharged, Mr. Ibu made a brief public appearance alongside fellow Nollywood star Ken Erics. However, his health situation was soon overshadowed by a troubling development.

Later that month, Nigerian police arrested Mr. Ibu’s son, Onyeabuchi Okafor, and his adopted daughter, Jasmine Okekeagwu, on allegations of stealing 55 million naira (approximately $60,700) from the actor’s medical fund. Authorities say the suspects hacked into Mr. Ibu’s phone and bank details after gaining access to his accounts. Police later recovered 50 million naira of the stolen funds, and disclosed that the pair had allegedly planned to flee to the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ibu was a cherished figure in African cinema, best known for his roles in comedy films that brought laughter to millions across Nigeria and beyond. His passing has left fans, colleagues, and the broader Nollywood community in mourning.