Peter Obi mourns Nollywood star Mr Ibu

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed grief over the death of veteran actor John Okafor popularly known as Mr Ibu.

The actor died on Saturday at age 62.

National president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Emeka Rollas announced the comic star’s death on his Instagram page on Saturday.

Rollas said Mr Ibu suffered a cardiac arrest according to his manager of 24 years, Don Nwuzor.

In a condolence message posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Obi stated that Mr Ibu’s death was a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry but to the nation.

“His death is very saddening. He was one legendary comic actor who embodied laughter, exuded joy, and spread happiness.

“When sadly he took ill, we all prayed for his quick recovery and hoped he would bounce back in good health.

“Those artists who lighten the mood of the nation also perform a great task of helping us all to weather the dark storms of life.

“On behalf of my family, I commiserate with his bereaved family, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, who just lost two legendary actors within a few days, and the entire Nollywood family.

“We share the pains of his death, but are comforted by the cherished moments of joy and happiness he left behind,” he wrote.

In November 2023, Mr Ibu underwent a leg amputation after suffering from an illness that required seven surgeries.

His family said the amputation was done to keep him alive and increase his chances of recovery.