Popular Nollywood actor, Mr Ibu is dead
He was said to have died on Saturday, March 2, 2024.
In October 2023, the veteran actor was reported ill and required financial assistance.
But in November 2023, Okafor’s family confirmed that one of his legs had been amputated to keep him alive. He died at the age of 62.
The veteran actor is considered one of nigeria’s most talented comic actors.
His abilities to project humour with a funny look and imitate imbecility gave him an edge above others in the Nigerian comic movie industry.
After his secondary school education, Mr Ibu got admitted into the College of Education, Yola but dropped out due to financial constraints.
He later enrolled Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu for a degree
John Okafor joined the Nigerian movie industry in 1998 but could not get lucrative roles as producers did not give him a chance to showcase his talent in major projects.
He rose to prominence in 2004 for his role in the blockbuster comic movie, “Mr. Ibu,”. He played the role of the father of a troublesome son. Osita Iheme played the role of the son. The duo made the movie an extremely comic one that spread all over the country, and it was recognized as the best comedy project then.
His effort in the movie bagged him the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Comic Actor in Nigeria in 2005.
He also earned his nickname “Mr Ibu” from the movie.
Okafor has acted in more than 200 Nollywood movies, including Mr Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr.Ibu in London, Police Recruit, 9 Wives, Ibu in Prison and Keziah.
The veteran actor is also one of the most influential Nigerian actors. Awards and nominations
Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
Best Comic Actor in Nigeria – Africa Movie Academy Awards
Best Actor in a Comedy – Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards
Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)
Rest on Legendary Star
