‘We Have No Light, No Water, Our Children Are Out of School’ – Mr Ibu’s Family Cries Out for Help

The family of late Nollywood comic legend, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has made a public appeal for financial assistance, revealing that they have been struggling to survive since the actor’s death.

His widow, Stella Marris, disclosed that the family is currently facing severe financial difficulties, with no access to basic necessities such as electricity and running water. She also revealed that their three children have been forced to stop attending school due to an inability to pay their fees.

Speaking in an emotional interview with social media influencer King Mitchy, Stella painted a heartbreaking picture of the family’s current living conditions, describing the daily challenges they face while trying to make ends meet.

According to her, unpaid rent has worsened their circumstances, resulting in the loss of access to certain essential services and leaving the family dependent on alternative means to meet their basic needs.

“We fetch water from a well because I haven’t been able to pay the house rent,” she said. “Our electricity has also been disconnected for about two months. Since then, we’ve been managing without power and often have to go elsewhere just to charge our phones. It has been extremely difficult.”

The widow explained that despite her efforts to provide for the family, the financial burden has become overwhelming. She noted that caring for the children, meeting daily expenses, and securing their education have become increasingly challenging since the actor’s passing.

The family further revealed that Mr Ibu’s 14-year-old daughter and his two sons, aged 12 and 10, are currently out of school because they can no longer afford tuition and other educational expenses.

In the interview, the late actor’s daughter expressed appreciation for her mother’s sacrifices and resilience despite the hardships confronting the family.

She praised her mother for doing everything possible to provide food and support for the household under difficult circumstances.

“I want to thank God for my mum because she does everything she can to take care of us and support our education,” she said.

The teenager also made a heartfelt appeal to members of the entertainment industry, including actors, filmmakers, producers, and friends who worked closely with her father during his lifetime, urging them to assist the family in their time of need.

“If you worked with my dad in the industry and you can see what we’re going through now, please come and help us,” she appealed.

Mr Ibu, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated comic actors, was widely loved for his humorous performances and memorable roles in numerous Nollywood productions. His death was mourned across the country, with many fans and colleagues paying tribute to his contributions to the growth of the Nigerian film industry.

The family’s latest appeal has since sparked reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing sympathy and calling on well-meaning individuals, industry stakeholders, and charitable organisations to support the actor’s widow and children as they navigate life after his passing.