Family and Friends Seek Funds for Mr. Ibu’s Burial

The family and friends of the late Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, have established a GoFundMe page to help cover his funeral costs.

The family announced that Mr. Ibu will be buried on June 28, 2024. He passed away on March 2, 2024, at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after suffering a cardiac arrest. This followed months of hospitalization, during which one of his legs was amputated.

Following the announcement of a five-day funeral for the actor, the central planning committee, comprising his family and friends, appealed to the public for donations to ensure a successful burial.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Monday Diamond; Secretary, Central Planning Committee, Christy Ejiofor; and the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, it was noted that the ailment leading to Mr. Ibu’s death had consumed millions of naira. This financial burden prompted the request for public assistance.

The statement read, “The Central Planning Committee of Late John Okafor (family and friends) solicits financial support from the general public to help them execute a successful burial for the late Nollywood legend.

“Mr. Ibu suffered an ailment that consumed tens of millions (of naira) in hospital bills for almost a year.

“Mr. Ibu, who passed away at the age of 62, left a lasting legacy in Nollywood. The planned events aim to honor his contributions to the industry and celebrate his life. The CPC urges the public to support this cause to give Mr. Ibu the farewell he deserves,” the committee stated, providing a Zenith Bank account for donations.

According to the funeral announcement signed by Sunday Okafor on behalf of the family, the burial arrangements will begin on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, with a novelty match between Nollywood and Rangers International.

A candlelight procession will be held for the actor on Wednesday, June 26, followed by a wake at his compound in Eziokwe Amurri, Enugu State, on Thursday, June 27.

“On Friday, June 28, 2024, his body will leave Eastern Nigeria Medical Center for his hometown in Amurri, Nkanu West LGA at around 10 am for the burial ceremony. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, June 30, followed by a thanksgiving service,” the statement added.

The Central Planning Committee also expressed gratitude to those who had already contributed, especially Jeremiah Fufeyin, the head prophet of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry in Effurun, Delta state.