VIDEO: ‘We Have No Light, We Drink Well Water’ — Mr Ibu’s Widow Cries Out for Help

VIDEO: ‘We Have No Light, We Drink Well Water’ — Mr Ibu’s Widow Cries Out for Help

The widow of late Nollywood icon John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has made an emotional appeal to Nigerians for financial assistance, revealing that she and her children are struggling to survive more than a year after the actor’s death.

Speaking during a video interview with content creator King Mitchy, Stella Maris Okafor disclosed that the family is battling severe financial difficulties, including unpaid rent, outstanding school fees, and months without electricity.

According to her, the family’s power supply was disconnected about two months ago due to unpaid bills, forcing them to seek alternative means of charging their phones and carry out daily activities without electricity.

“We fetch water from the well because I have not paid the house rent. They have even cut my lights for two months now. Every night we go to look for a place to charge our phones. It’s not easy,” she said.

The widow explained that the situation has become increasingly difficult as she struggles to provide for her children following the death of the veteran actor, who was one of Nigeria’s most beloved comedians.

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She further revealed that her children’s education is now at risk because of unpaid tuition fees. According to her, the school recently sent a reminder demanding payment of outstanding fees, raising fears that the children may be unable to continue attending classes.

“Right now, they can’t go to school again. I can even show you the message the school sent me today,” she lamented.

One of Mr Ibu’s daughters expressed gratitude to her mother for her efforts in keeping the family together despite the mounting challenges.

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

The appeal has drawn attention from fans and supporters who remember the nationwide campaign that raised funds for the actor’s medical treatment before his death.

The late Mr Ibu underwent several medical procedures during a prolonged illness that captured national attention. His condition prompted support from celebrities, colleagues in the entertainment industry, corporate organisations, and thousands of Nigerians who donated towards his treatment.

Despite those efforts, the veteran comic actor passed away on March 2, 2024, at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy that spans more than two decades in the Nigerian film industry.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential comic actors in Nollywood, Mr Ibu became a household name through his distinctive acting style and memorable performances in numerous blockbuster movies.

His widow’s latest appeal has reignited discussions about the welfare of entertainers and the challenges families often face after the death of prominent public figures. It has also highlighted the growing economic pressures confronting many Nigerian households amid rising living costs and educational expenses.

As calls for support continue to grow, well-wishers have expressed hope that the family will receive the assistance needed to keep the children in school and improve their living conditions.

VIDEO: ‘We Have No Light, We Drink Well Water’ — Mr Ibu’s Widow Cries Out for Help