Toba Owojaiye Reporting
Highly celebrated Nollywood comic actor, John Okafor, famously known as Mr Ibu, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world with a heartfelt plea for help from his sickbed. Currently hospitalized in an undisclosed private facility in Lagos, the 62-year-old actor is battling a severe health issue that has left him in dire straits.
In a video that quickly went viral after being shared on his verified Instagram account, Mr Ibu beseeched his fans for their support and prayers. In his emotional appeal, he revealed that he has been in the hospital for several weeks, and medical professionals have issued a daunting ultimatum: they might have to amputate his leg if their next course of action fails.
With a heavy heart, Mr Ibu said, “I have been down for so many weeks. All I am hoping for is your prayers and assistance. As I speak to you, I am still lying in the hospital. The medical director of this hospital said that if his new idea doesn’t work, the best option is to amputate my leg.”
The actor’s daughter, Jasmine Okafor, also appeared in the video, pleading for help from individuals and organizations to facilitate Mr Ibu’s transfer abroad for medical care. Despite being in one of Lagos’s finest private medical facilities, his health continues to deteriorate, and they are left with no alternative.
His wife, in a tearful plea, joined the chorus for assistance, underlining the urgency of the situation. As Mr Ibu celebrated his 62nd birthday while confined to his hospital bed, fans, friends, and the entertainment industry as a whole are rallying to support the actor.
Mr Ibu, known for his iconic roles in over 200 Nollywood films, has graced screens with his unique humor and charm. He became a household name through classics like “Mr. Ibu” (2004) and “Mr. Ibu and His Son.” Now, his fans and colleagues in the industry are united in their prayers and efforts to prevent the potential loss of one of Nollywood’s most cherished talents.
In these trying times, the entire entertainment community stands in solidarity with Mr Ibu, hoping for a miracle and rallying to ensure that he receives the best care possible in his fight for recovery.