Monday, October 19, 2026

‘I don’t want my leg cut off,’ Mr Ibu begs Nigerians for support

Mr Ibu, who spoke about his ill health on Instagram, said he had been hospitalised for weeks and cried out for prayers and assistance.

• October 18, 2023
Mr Ibu
Mr Ibu (Credit: Daily Trust)

Nollywood veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, has appealed to Nigerians for support as he risks amputation.

Mr Ibu, who spoke about his ill health on Instagram, said he had been hospitalised for weeks and cried out for prayers and assistance.

“I am still lying down in the hospital; the medical doctor of the hospital said the best solution if his idea didn’t work, the best idea is to cut off my leg,” said the actor. “Just see me; if they cut off my leg, where will I go to? Where do I go from here?”

“Please, please bring on the prayers for me, talk to God almighty. I don’t want my leg to be cut off, please. Thank you so much, God, bless you,” he added.

In the video, Chioma Okafor, the daughter of the renowned Nollywood actor, sought financial help. Okafor said she had solely shouldered the bills, which has become increasingly challenging.

“Dear Nigerians, at this point, as a family, we want to appeal that people should come to daddy’s aid and rescue. We took him to the hospital. 

“I’ve been the one sorting out this bill, but I’m drained financially. I can’t do it alone, please. I’m calling for help,” she said.

Okafor elaborated that Mr Ibu’s health has been oscillating between periods of deterioration and improvement, only to regress again.

She stated that her father received care at a top-tier private hospital in Lagos, but unfortunately, there has been no improvement in his condition.

Stella Okafor, the actor’s wife, also sought Nigerians’ support, emphasising that Mr Ibu was in constant pain and frequently in tears.

The actor celebrated his 62nd birthday in the hospital on October 17.

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