Mr Ibu's widow and children cry for financial help

More than two years after the passing of veteran Nigerian comic actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, his widow and three children have made an emotional appeal for financial assistance, revealing the difficult conditions they are currently living under.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, the late actor’s family opened up about the hardships they have been facing, including the inability to pay rent, lack of electricity, and mounting school fees.

Speaking in the video, Mr Ibu’s widow disclosed that their electricity had been disconnected for the past two months due to unpaid bills.

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“There is a problem with water, and because I have not paid the house rent, they have even cut my light for two months now. Every night we go to look for where to charge our phones, and it’s not easy. It’s not easy,” she said

She further lamented that despite her husband’s status as one of Nigeria’s most beloved entertainers, his family has been left to struggle for survival after his death.

“The family of a legend, not just anybody, Mr Ibu. Now that he’s gone, his family should not be suffering,” she added.

Mr Ibu’s 14-year-old daughter also spoke about the sacrifices their mother has been making to keep the family together despite the challenges.

“I have to thank God for my mom. She tries everything she can to feed us, pay our school fees, and make us happy,” the teenager said.

The young girl went on to make a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians to come to their aid, especially in helping to secure their education.

“What we need from Nigerians is school fees. Otherwise, we cannot go to school again,” she pleaded.

According to the family, they recently received another reminder from their school over outstanding fees, raising fears that the children may be forced out of school if support does not arrive soon.

The emotional video has sparked widespread reactions online, with many social media users expressing sympathy for the family and calling on well-meaning individuals and members of the entertainment industry to support the late actor’s widow and children.

Mr Ibu, regarded as one of Africa’s most celebrated comic actors, passed away in 2024 after battling health complications, leaving behind a legacy that entertained millions across the continent.

King Mitchy visited legendary Nollywood actor Mr Ibu’s family and discovered his 14yr daughter, 12 & 10yr old sons dropped out of school.

The family also revealed they have been without electricity and potable water for 2 weeks cause of insufficient funds🤦💔 pic.twitter.com/uYkpGFtVjW

— Beri🌚 (@beri_grizou) June 24, 2026