The family of late Nollywood comic actor John Okafor, widely known as Mr Ibu, has received ₦7.5 million in donations after a public appeal revealed the financial difficulties they have faced since the actor’s death.
The funds will be used to pay rent, settle outstanding school fees, and provide relief for the children, according to content creator King Mitchy.
The update was shared on Friday through King Mitchy’s Instagram page, just two days after she posted a video showing Mr Ibu’s widow and children appealing to Nigerians for assistance over their living conditions.
“First of all, I sincerely want to thank everyone who donated. Together, we were able to raise ₦7.5 million for the family. God bless every single one of you,” she wrote.
Donations to Cover School Fees and Rent
According to King Mitchy, the donations will immediately address some of the family’s most pressing needs, particularly the children’s education and housing.
She explained that part of the money would be used to pay the children’s school fees, including the eldest daughter’s West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees, which the family had been unable to afford.
“This support will help pay the children’s school fees, including the eldest daughter’s WAEC fees, which they couldn’t afford. It will also help them with rent,” she added.
King Mitchy also disclosed that after discussing the family’s situation with Mr Ibu’s widow, she advised her to move to a more affordable apartment to reduce their financial burden.
She noted that more videos from her conversation with the widow would be released, including responses to questions many Nigerians have raised about the family’s circumstances.
“I only met her two days ago after a neighbour called me to help. I knew nothing about the family’s situation before then. My only focus from the beginning has been to make sure the children get the help they deserve,” she stated.
Public Appeal Drew Nationwide Support
The fundraising effort followed the circulation of a viral video in which Mr Ibu’s widow shared the hardships the family had been enduring. She revealed that they had been without electricity for about two months because they could not pay their electricity bills.
She also disclosed that the family relied on water from a nearby well and that the children had stopped attending school due to unpaid tuition fees.
Also Read: Mr Ibu’s Widow Appeals for Help as Family Struggles With Rent and School Fees
The emotional appeal attracted widespread sympathy from Nigerians, with many individuals contributing financially to support Mr Ibu’s family during the difficult period.
John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, died on March 2, 2024, at the age of 62 after a prolonged illness. Regarded as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated comic actors, he left behind a lasting legacy in the country’s entertainment industry.
