John Okafor, the ace Nigerian actor popularly known as Mr Ibu, has passed away at the age of 62.
Emeka Rollas, the president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), broke the news in an Instagram post on Saturday evening.
Rollas quoted Don Nwuzor, the actor’s longtime manager, as confirming that he died of cardiac arrest.
“Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest according to his manager for 24 years Mr Don Single Nwuzor,” the post reads in part.
“I announce with deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didn’t make it. May his soul rest in peace.”
Mr Ibu’s condition was said to have worsened a week ago after which he was rushed to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Evercare Hospital, Lekki, Lagos.
In October last year, the ace actor revealed he was battling with a life-threatening illness.
Ibu, who spoke from a hospital bed, also cried out for financial assistance over the medical condition.
The film star’s plight prompted calls on social media for the AGN to assist one of its own.
Several people announced their donations to the ailing actor, including the Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Foundation, which revealed it “paid the entire medical expenses of Ibu”.
On November 6, Ibu’s family revealed that the actor’s leg had been amputated after undergoing seven surgeries. He, however, remained in the hospital where had been recuperating.
In January, the movie star returned home after months in the hospital.
The actor delved into acting in the early 2000s but rose to fame for his role in the movie ‘Mr Ibu,’ which was released in 2004.
He also featured in a plethora of movies such as ‘Coffin Producers’, ‘Husband Suppliers’, ‘International Players’, ‘Mr.Ibu in London’ and ‘Police Recruit’.
Ibu was well known for his comedic roles in films which earned him several nominations and awards.
His death followed after the demise of Sisi Quadri, another actor. Quadri, who died on Friday, was buried on Saturday in his hometown in Iwo, Osun.
