Mr Ibu, whose full name is John Ikechukwu Okafor was born on 17th October 1961. He is a popular Nigerian comic actor and comedian. The legendary actor has appeared in over 200 Nollywood films. On 2 March 2024, the country was thrown into deep mourning following the sad news of his demise. This article will examine John Okafor’s (Mr. Ibu) life, his biography, cars, and estimated net worth.
Table of Contents
Biography
Mr John Ikechukwu Okafor was born on October 17, 1961. He is from Umunekwu in Nkanu West L.G.A, Enugu State. In 1974, Mr. Ibu moved to Sapele to stay with his brother after elementary school and the death of his father. Over there in Sapele, he engaged himself in doing menial so he could send himself to school as well as support his family. He then worked as a hairstylist, ventured into photography, and also worked in a company that produced crates.
Soon after his secondary school, he was admitted into the College of Education, Yola, but dropped out due to financial difficulties. A couple of years later, he enrolled in the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu.
Career
In early 2000, I grew up to know Mr Ibu as the funniest actor in Nollywood. He has been featured in over 200 Nollywood films including Mr. Ibu (2004), Mr. Ibu 2 (2005), Mr. Ibu and His Son, Coffin Producers, Husband Suppliers, International Players, Mr. Ibu in London (2005), Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).
Aside from his acting career, Mr. Ibu doubles as a musician too. He released his songs titled “This Girl” and “Do You Know” on 15 October 2020.
Health challenges
Mr. John Okafor revealed that he was suffering from an ailment that threatened to make it necessary to amputate one of his legs in October 2023. He appealed to his fans and the general public for prayers and financial assistance to cover his medical bills, videos of him lying in a hospital bed were also released, expressing fear of losing his legs.
The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation, which was established by the former senate president of Nigeria, paid off Okafor’s entire medical expenses as of 18 October 2023. The foundation also made it clear that the actor still needs a lot of financial assistance to sustain him in the hospital and for his travel abroad for further treatment.
In November 2023, the actor underwent a leg amputation. His family said the amputation was done to keep him alive and increase his chances of recovery.
Death
On 2 March 2024, the country was thrown into deep mourning following his demise at Evercare Hospital in Lagos, as a result of cardiac arrest.
Personal life
Before going into acting, Mr Ibu was a boxer, football coach, and karate practitioner. He was married twice and has more than 10 children.
His marriage to his second wife, Stella Maris Okafor is blessed with three children, one of whom is deceased.
John Okafor (Mr. Ibu) cars
Mr Ibu owned a range of luxury cars, including a white BMW X6 SUV, a Mercedes-Benz C300, a Lexus LX570, and a Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe.
Mr Ibu’s net worth
Until his death, Mr. Ibu’s net worth is estimated at $400,000.
Quick facts about Mr. John Okafor (Ibu)
| Full names | John Ikechukwu Okafor |
| Date of birth | 17 October 1961 |
| Died | 2 March 2024 |
| Age | 62 years |
| Years active | 1999 – 2020 |
| Other names | Mr. Ibu |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Actor and musician |
| State of origin | Enugu State |
| Wife | Stella Maris Okafor |
| Net worth | $400,000 |
