By Prosper Mene
Lagos, Nigeria – April 25, 2026
Mrs Stella Maris Okafor, widow of late Nollywood veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has made an emotional appeal for financial support, saying life has been difficult since the actor’s death in March 2024.
Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Thursday, Mrs Okafor said she has been struggling with medical bills, children’s school fees, and daily upkeep without her husband’s income.
“It’s not easy,” she said tearfully. “Since Baba passed, the responsibility has been on me alone. The children are still in school and there are many things to take care of. I am appealing to good Nigerians, fans, and kind-hearted people to assist us. Any support will go a long way.”
However, Mr Ibu’s stepson, Daniel Okafor, has disputed the widow’s claims. In a statement posted online, Daniel alleged that the family has received substantial donations from fans, colleagues, and organizations since the actor’s illness began in 2023 and after his death.
“The public should know the truth,” Daniel said. “A lot of money was raised for my dad’s treatment and for the family’s upkeep. We need transparency on how those funds were managed. It is unfair for the widow to keep asking the public for money without accountability.”
Daniel further claimed that he and other family members have been sidelined from decisions concerning the late actor’s estate and donations.
Mr Ibu, famed for his comic roles and protruding stomach, died on March 2, 2024 at a Lagos hospital after a prolonged illness that led to the amputation of one of his legs. He starred in over 200 movies including Mr Ibu, Keziekele, and 9 Wives.
Since his death, Mrs Okafor and the children have received visits and donations from fellow actors, fans, and the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN. The AGN Enugu State chapter said it is monitoring the situation and has urged both parties to settle differences amicably “in the interest of Mr Ibu’s legacy and the children”.
Fans on social media have reacted with mixed views, with some calling for transparency while others urged Nigerians to support the widow regardless of the family dispute.
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