2024-04-04 08:28:44
The famous Nigerian comic actor John Okafor, known worldwide for his character Mr Ibu, died this Saturday March 2, 2024 at the age of 66. Sad news that plunges Nollywood and its millions of fans into mourning.
Hospitalized for many months, John Okafor had been battling health problems since the end of 2022. He notably had to have one of his legs amputated last November, due to an infection threatening his ankle.
Despite this operation, his general condition did not improve, ultimately leading to his death on the morning of Saturday March 2. A fatal outcome whose brutal suddenness caused great emotion in Nigeria and throughout Africa.
An emblematic figure disappears
Indeed, during his long career that began in the 1990s, John Okafor had become one of the most popular faces in Nollywood. His facial expressions and his unparalleled comic verve in the skin of his favorite character Mr Ibu had made him a real star throughout the country.
Appearing in hundreds of films, he was one of those popular actors whom the general public affectionately nicknamed by the name of their recurring heroes. And his disappearance therefore leaves a huge void, both for the Nigerian film industry and for generations of fans.
Unanimous tributes
Also, many Nigerian personalities were quick to pay tribute to this Nollywood monument. “Rest in peace Ibu. You really made the whole world laugh”tweeted star Genevieve Nnaji, when singer Tiwa Savage greeted “a hilarious legend”.
Enough to bear witness to the mark left by this outstanding comedian, whose considerable comic filmography will undoubtedly remain as a part of Nigerian cultural heritage. Farewell the artist, welcome to the legend!