John Ikechukwu Okafor, commonly referred to as Mr. Ibu, was a celebrated Nigerian actor and comedian.
He graced the screens in more than 200 Nollywood productions, including the renowned Mr. Ibu series.
Early life and Education
Okafor, born on 17 October 1961 in Umunekwu, located in what was once Nigeria’s Eastern Region (now in Nkanu West L.G.A., Enugu State), faced challenges early in life. Following his father’s passing in 1974, he relocated to Sapele to live with his brother, where he undertook various odd jobs to finance his education and support his family. Initially working in menial roles, including hairstyling and photography, he later found employment at a crate production company. Despite facing financial constraints, he pursued education, initially at the College of Education, Yola, before eventually enrolling at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu.
Career
Okafor’s illustrious career spanned over 200 Nollywood films, including iconic titles like “Mr. Ibu” (2004), “Mr. Ibu 2” (2005), “Mr. Ibu and His Son,” “Coffin Producers,” “Husband Suppliers,” “International Players,” and “Store Keeper” (2006). His versatility shone in works such as “Issakaba” (1999), “Mr. Ibu in London” (2005), “Police Recruit” (2003), “Bafana Bafana” (2007), “9 Wives” (2005), “Ibu in Prison” (2006), and “Keziah” (2007).
Recognized as “Nigeria’s Borat,” Okafor was outspoken on issues, including his stance against homosexuality in Nollywood, likening it to a virus and advocating for its eradication.
In addition to his acting prowess, Okafor briefly explored music, releasing tracks like “This Girl” and “Do You Know” on 15 October 2020.
Personal life
Prior to his acting career, Okafor dabbled in various endeavors, including boxing, football coaching, and practicing karate. He experienced two marriages during his lifetime, fathering more than 10 children. His second wife, Stella Maris Okafor, bore him three children, one of whom tragically passed away.
In a distressing turn of events, Okafor’s son Daniel and adopted daughter Jasmine were implicated in the alleged hacking of his phone and the theft of $60,700 from him. Both individuals were apprehended in January 2024.
Illness and Death
In October 2023, Okafor disclosed his battle with an ailment that jeopardized one of his legs, which he attributed to an incident on a movie set with fellow Nollywood actors. He sought support from his fans and the public, both in prayers and financial assistance, to cover his medical expenses. Despite efforts, the situation escalated, leading to a leg amputation in November 2023 after enduring seven surgeries, a measure taken to preserve his life and enhance his chances of recovery. Despite medical intervention, Okafor tragically passed away on 2 March 2024, succumbing to cardiac arrest at Evercare Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, at the age of 62. In the wake of his demise, his adopted daughter Jasmine assumed control of his TikTok account, renaming it after herself and removing videos that didn’t feature her.
Net Worth estimated
Undisclosed