Mr Ibu’s family announces burial arrangement

The esteemed family of the late Nollywood luminary, John Okafor, affectionately known by his stage persona, Mr. Ibu, has solemnly declared the scheduled date for his final rites.

This iconic figure, celebrated far and wide for his comedic brilliance within the vibrant tapestry of the Nigerian film landscape, will find his eternal resting place in the embrace of his hometown, Amuri, nestled within the tranquil precincts of the Nkanu West Local Government Area in Enugu State.

The announcement reverberated through a heartfelt statement, bearing the signatures of none other than the actor’s kin, notably his esteemed brother, Elder Sunday Okafor.

The family’s announcement eloquently conveyed their commitment to honoring their beloved with the respect and reverence befitting a hero.

“The deceased will be buried like a hero,” Elder Okafor stated.

The statement said the burial ceremony would begin on Tuesday, June 25th, with a high-profile novelty match. On Wednesday, June 26, there would be a session called Mr Ibu’s Night, which would involve a candlelight procession and live entertainment.

A Christian Wake will be held on June 27 at his compound in Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West, while the funeral service will take place on June 28.

The five-day burial ceremony will be wrapped up on Sunday, June 30th, with a Church Thanksgiving for family members, friends, and well-wishers.

The statement reads,

“The Okafor family in Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West LGA in Enugu State wishes to honour the loving memory of our hero and a legend John Ikechukwu Okafor who even in death has left a legacy of love, laughter and liveliness.

“We would appreciate your esteemed presence as we lay to rest our son, husband, father, grandfather,brother, uncle and in-law on the 28th of June 2024.

“Kindly join us as we share the best and last moments with our icon.”

Okafor who had been ill since October 2023 was said to have died of cardiac arrest on Saturday, March 2, in Evercare hospital in Lekki.