The wife and children of late Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, have appealed to Nigerians for financial assistance, revealing they are battling mounting hardship including unpaid rent, disconnected electricity, and a lack of running water.
The family made the appeal in a video interview with content creator King Mitchy, in which they laid bare the dire circumstances they have faced since the death of the beloved comic actor.
Mr Ibu, who rose to fame through his portrayal of bumbling, loveable characters in dozens of Nollywood productions, passed away earlier this year after a prolonged illness that included the amputation of one of his legs.
He was celebrated across Nigeria and beyond as one of the most recognisable faces in African cinema.
His widow and children said the financial situation at home has become untenable, with landlord pressure over unpaid rent compounding the distress of losing their breadwinner.
The disconnection of electricity and absence of running water have further worsened conditions for the family, they disclosed.
The appeal has drawn significant attention on social media, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy and calling on well-meaning individuals, corporate bodies, and the Nigerian government to come to the family’s aid.
The family’s appeal reignites broader conversations about welfare provisions for aging and deceased Nollywood veterans, many of whom leave behind dependants with little financial safety net.
Watch their video HERE.
