Mr Ibu: Heartbreak as ‘Die Hard’ Chelsea fan and Nollywood legend passes away on Pochettino’s birthday
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Mr Ibu: Die-hard Chelsea fan and Nollywood legend passes away aged 62

Mr Ibu: Heartbreak as ‘Die Hard’ Chelsea fan and Nollywood legend passes away on Pochettino’s birthday

David Ben 21:25 - 02.03.2024

Nollywood legend and comedian John Okafor popularly known as Mr Ibu has passed away aged 62.

In a shocking turn of events, Nollywood icon and beloved comedian John Ikechukwu Okafor, famously known as "Mr Ibu," has reportedly breathed his last at the age of 62.

The news of his demise comes after a prolonged battle with severe health complications, marking the end of an era in Nigeria's entertainment industry.

Tragic Coincidence: Mr Ibu's Passing on Pochettino's Birthday

Mr Ibu death
Mr Ibu has reportedly passed away aged 62 | Credit: Instagram

As Nigerians mourns the loss of a cinematic legend, the timing of Mr Ibu's death coincides with the birthday of under-fire Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Mauricio Pochettino
Mr Ibu passed away on the birthday of Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino || Credit: imago

While Pochettino continue to be under fire in his role as Blues boss, Mr Ibu's passing serves as a somber reminder of life's unpredictable twists and turns.

Brentford vs Chelsea
Chelsea were held in a 2-2 draw away at Brentford in the Premier League on Pochettino’s birthday | Credit: IMAGO

The Blues boss was forced to watch his side drop points against Brentford on Saturday in the Premier League in what was another setback in Chelsea’s pursuit of European football.

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The news of Mr Ibu’s death comes just hours after reports broke that Nollywood veteran Kate Henshaw, lost her mother earlier today.

The president of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas Ejezie, disclosed that Mr Ibu suffered cardiac arrest on Sunday at Evercare hospital, Lekki, Lagos, according to his manager for 24 years Mr Don Single Nwuzor.

Following the news of his demise, the outpouring of grief and condolences from fans have continued to emphasize the profound impact of Mr Ibu's passing.

Mr Ibu death
Mr Ibu had battled with severe health issues before his demise | Credit: Instagram

Before the news of his heartbreaking demise, Mr Ibu had reportedly undergone seven successful surgeries, including an amputation of one of his legs.

A Legacy Remembered: Mr Ibu's Illustrious Career and love for Chelsea F.C

Mr Ibu death
Mr Ibu was a die-hard Chelsea fan

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr Ibu graced the silver screen with his unparalleled comedic acting and infectious charisma, becoming a household name to audiences in Nigeria and beyond.

With over 200 Nollywood movies to his credit, including iconic titles such as "Mr. Ibu," "Mr. Ibu 2," and "Mr. Ibu in London," he carved a niche for himself as one of Nigeria's most beloved entertainers.

His comedic genius knew no bounds, as evidenced by his unforgettable performances in cult classics like "PAW PAW BARCELONA VS MR. IBU CHELSEA," a testament to his unwavering loyalty to Premier League club Chelsea.

Mr Ibu dies
Mr Ibu in the scene of a comedy movie | Credit: YouTube

In a nod to his fandom, Mr Ibu revealed that he even named his only biological daughter "Chelsea," in a 2017 interview, underscoring his deep-rooted passion for the West London club.

Mr Ibu daughter Chelsea
Mr Ibu and his only daughter Chelsea Iburess Okafor | Credit: Instagram

Mr Ibu also disclosed that he named his house after the club’s home ground, Stamford Bridge.

He said:

“I love Chelsea with all my blood. My wife gave birth to a [baby]girl outside the country. Even before I saw my baby, she already gave her [the name] Chelsea. That is to tell you..in my house, my house is called Stamford Bridge.”

Mr Ibu death
Mr Ibu and his only daughter Chelsea Iburess Okafor | Credit: Instagram

The heartbreaking news reverberates across Nigeria and beyond, as fans, colleagues, and admirers pay tribute to the indelible mark Mr Ibu left on the entertainment landscape.

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