Enugu hosted a night of tribute on Wednesday, June 26 in honor of the late actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu.
Photos and videos from the event show Mr. Ibu’s family, friends, and well-wishers, all dressed in white, gathered to honour his memory. Notable colleagues including Charles Awurum, Victor Osuagwu, and Steve Eboh were also in attendance.
On June 25, a novelty match was played in his honour at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, pitting the current champions of the Nigerian Professional Football League, Rangers Football Club of Enugu, against a select team.
Following the novelty match, Enugu State commissioner for culture and tourism Ugochi Madueke declared that the state government was proud of the late Nollywood actor. Madueke stated, “Mr. Ibu was a great and unique actor. That is what brought all these people out to honour him, and the Enugu State Government is proud of him.”
The central planning committee chairman Monday Ani also expressed gratitude to everyone who attended the event, acknowledging their support and presence.
Earlier this month, members of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) held a joint night of tribute for their late colleagues, Mr. Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, and Zulu Adigwe.
They began with a candlelight procession at Marshall Roundabout in Surulere around 5pm and concluded at the National Stadium in Surulere. Notable actors and actresses attended to pay their last respects.
Mr. Ibu passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2024, after a prolonged illness which required financial assistance. In November 2023, his family confirmed that one of his legs had been amputated in a bid to save his life.
