By Abiola Olawale
Prominent Nigerians in political and entertainment space have begun to pen heartfelt tributes in honour of renowned Nollywood actor, John Okafor, commonly called Mr Ibu, who passed away in the late hours of Saturday.
The New Diplomat reports that Mr Ibu died at age of 62years, after battling an illness which caused him to undergo multiple surgeries.
Reacting to the loss, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, in a condolence message posted on his X handle on Sunday, stated that Mr Ibu’s death was a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry, but to the nation.
Obi tweeted ,”His death is very saddening. He was one legendary comic actor who embodied laughter, exuded joy and spread happiness. When sadly he took ill, we all prayed for his quick recovery and hoped he would bounce back in good health.
“His death is a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry, but to the nation. Those artists who lighten the mood of the nation also perform a great task of helping us all to weather the dark storms of life.
“On behalf of my family, I commiserate with his bereaved family, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, who just lost two legendary actors within a few days and the entire Nollywood family. We share the pains of his death, but are comforted by the cherished moments of joy and happiness he left behind. May God who called him home grant him eternal rest and grant his family, and all of us who mourn him, the fortitude to bear his sad irreplaceable loss. Rest in Peace Mr Ibu! -PO”
Also, a former member of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Shehu Sani, wrote: “The news of the passing away of the comic Actor Mr Ibu is sad and unfortunate. A distinguished artist who made us laugh, smile and lightened up our lives with his unique talent and humorous creativity. For decades, he has been a delightful spice in our homes and hearts. A great loss to our country and the entertainment industry. May his soul rest in peace.”
A renowned activist and ex-member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Deji Adeyanju said: Rest in peace sir.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria, and chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Festus Keyamo commented: “Mr. Ibu’: Consummate comedian; quintessential actor; skit-makers’ delight; screen god; one of Nollywood’s finest – REST IN PEACE. We will miss you”
The immediate past governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello wrote: “In loving memory of my dear friend and brother, our finest Nollywood legend, Mr. John Ikechukwu Okafor A.K.A Mr Ibu. May your soul find eternal peace. Your legacy lives on forever.”
Former gubernatorial candidate in Enugu state, Frank Nweke Jr said: “I mourn Mr Ibu. I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of celebrated Nollywood Star and my fellow Nkanu brother, John Ikechukwu Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu just when his numerous admirers were celebrating his earlier recovery from a prolonged illness. Mr Ibu has gone the way of all mortals but he will be remembered for his pioneering role in Nollywood alongside other greats and for the joy and delight he brought to people across the world through his unique comical roles in many movies.”
Also,a stand-up comedian, Bovi Ugboma while mourning the demise of the actor said, “The passing of John Okafor aka Mr. Ibu is a sad chapter in Nigerian entertainment history. Let’s take solace in the fact that his works will live on and will inspire generations unborn. RIP to one of the greats. ❤️❤️”
