Nigerian actor John Okafor, well known as Mr Ibu, has died.
Emeka Rollas, president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), announced the news in an Instagram post on Saturday evening.
According to Rollas, the actor’s longtime manager, Don Nwuzor, confirmed his death due to cardiac arrest.
“Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest according to his manager for 24 years Mr Don Single Nwuzor,” the post reads in part.
“I announce with deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didnt make it. May his soul rest in peace.”
Mr Ibu’s condition was claimed to have deteriorated a week ago, prompting his admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos.
In October of last year, the actor revealed he was facing a life-threatening illness.
Ibu, who spoke from a hospital bed, also requested financial aid for her medical condition.
Social media users urged the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) to help a fellow member in need.
The Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Foundation announced it had paid Ibu’s total medical expenditures.
On November 6, Ibu’s family disclosed that the actor’s leg was severed following seven procedures. He remained in the hospital where he was recovering.
In January, the movie star returned home after months in the hospital.
The 63-year-old actor began performing in the early 2000s but catapulted to prominence with his appearance in the 2004 film “Mr Ibu.”
He has appeared in a variety of films such as ‘Coffin Producers’, ‘Husband Suppliers’, ‘International Players’, ‘Mr.Ibu in London’, and ‘Police Recruit’.
Ibu was highly known for his humorous performances, and he received numerous nominations and awards for his work.
His death came after the death of another actor, Sisi Quadri. Quari died on Friday and was buried on Saturday in his birthplace of Iwo, Osun.
