Ibu Suffered Heart Attack Before He Passed On — Emeka Rollas

Nollywood icon John Okafor, affectionately known as Mr Ibu, aged 62, experienced a heart attack before his passing.

Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), shared this news on his Instagram page on Saturday, March 2, 2024.

Rollas conveyed, "Sad Day for Actors Guild of Nigeria. Kate Henshaw lost her mother earlier today, and Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest according to his manager of 24 years, Mr Don Single Nwuzor. I announce with a deep sense of grief that Mr Ibu didn’t make it. May his soul rest in peace."

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that in October 2023, John Okafor disclosed his battle with an ailment that posed a threat of amputation to one of his legs. He revealed that the problem arose while on a movie set with fellow Nollywood actors and actresses. Okafor appealed to his fans and the public for prayers and financial assistance to cover his medical bills. He also shared a video from his hospital bed, expressing fear of losing his leg.

However, on October 18, 2023, the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation settled Okafor’s entire medical expenses. Despite this, the foundation emphasized that Okafor still required significant financial support for his ongoing hospital care and future travels abroad for further treatment.

In November 2023, Okafor underwent a leg amputation due to an illness that necessitated seven surgeries. His family stated that the amputation was performed to prolong his life and enhance his chances of recovery.

Okafor left an indelible mark in the Nigerian film industry, starring in over 200 Nollywood movies. He briefly explored music, releasing songs titled "This Girl" and "Do You Know" on October 15, 2020.