Entertainment

Mr. Ibu: Family plans befitting burial for late actor, denies soliciting funds

The tribute night on June 26 will be preceded by a novelty match on June 25 between celebrities and the Rangers International Football Club of Enugu at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

610

The family of the late Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, has refuted claims that they were soliciting funds for his burial.

In a statement, the Central Planning Committee for Mr. Ibu’s burial issued this clarification, which Per Second News obtained on Tuesday.

Earlier reports had indicated that Mr. Ibu will be buried on June 28, 2024, in his hometown of Amuri in the Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

However, Monday Diamond Ani, the Chairman of the Burial Committee, described the allegations of the family begging online as “manipulative, malicious, fabricated, and engineered by an evil gang against Mr. Ibu even while he was on his sickbed and after his death.”

Ani noted that despite the substantial medical expenses incurred during Mr. Ibu’s illness, the committee has arranged comprehensive plans for his burial.

He emphasized that notable friends and family members have distanced themselves from the false claims, and he warned those tarnishing Mr. Ibu’s image on social media to cease their actions to avoid divine retribution.

Regarding the burial events, Ani announced a star-studded tribute performance at the Base Event Centre in Enugu and a novelty match to honour Mr. Ibu.

He expressed gratitude to the Enugu State Government and various individuals for their support in providing accommodations, security, transportation, and funds.

Ani clarified: “There was never a time when such a publication emanated from us. It’s the handiwork of some miscreants and enemies of progress who perhaps wished for Mr. Ibu’s death and are now using this medium to tarnish his name and that of the Okafor family.

“It is customary in Igbo land for well-wishers to contribute funds to support a burial. Some will bring live cows, provide financial support, or help with logistics. That’s what is happening in Mr. Ibu’s case, so it is not a taboo.”

Expected performers and attendees include Rudeboy, Flavour, Odumeje, Akpororo, Chinyere Udoma, Gozie Okeke, Felix Ndukwe, Paul Nwokocha, Able Cee, Anyidons, Kola Boy, and many others. Star appearances will feature Chief Pete Edochie, MON, Osuofia, Patience Ozokwor (Mama G), Osita Iheme (Paw Paw), Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki), Mercy Johnson, Rachel Okonkwo (NKOLI), Destiny Etiko, Chinwe Owo, Victor Osuagu, Charles Anwurum, Ngozi Ezeonu, Amb Emeka Rollas, the AGN President, and numerous other prominent actors.
There will also be a documentary on John Okafor’s life and times.

The tribute night on June 26 will be preceded by a novelty match on June 25 between celebrities and the Rangers International Football Club of Enugu at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

 

Leave a comment

Related Articles

Phyna: Many struggles of a reality star

Since emerging as the winner of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), the...

Funke Akindele, Mercy Aigbe, Toyin set to ‘clash’ at box office

As Nollywood prepares for a competitive December at the box office, Funke...

How mum’s death reunited Kunle and Aremu Afolayan after years of estrangement

There are strong indications that the duo of Kunle Afolayan and Aremu...

My Prostate Cancer Ordeal—Charly Boy

Charly Boy, fondly known as Area Fada, is a legendary figure in...

Dayo Amusa debunks trending baby picture, confirms birth of new baby

Nollywood actress Dayo Amusa has addressed rumours surrounding a trending picture purported...

After disappointing exit from Miss South Africa, Chidimma Adetshina, shines as Miss Universe Africa

Last Saturday, Chidimma Adetshina turned disappointment into triumph as she was crowned...

Ahead of his birthday, Davido pledges N300m donation to orphanages, anti-drug abuse charity

Nigerian music sensation David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has announced a...

I didn’t build my wealth by dating politicians or taking shortcuts, Ashmusy declares

Popular content creator and entrepreneur Amarachi Amusi, also known as Ashmusy, has...

Portable dismisses Olamide’s role in his fame, credits self, others for success

Controversial street singer Portable has rubbished Olamide’s involvement in his rise-to-fame journey,...

Annie Idibia shuts down age critics, declares self sexiest 40-year-old actress alive

Annie Idibia, Nollywood actress and wife of musician 2Baba, has addressed critics...

Marriage not for everyone—Nkcehi Blessing

Controversial Nigerian actress, Nkechi Blessing is in the news again—this time addressing...

My from beneath to grace story: Anni Idibia celebrates 40th birthday with gratitude, reflection

Annie Idibia, the wife of legendary musician 2Baba, has expressed her excitement...

Skit Maker, Mummy Wa, opens up on sexual harassment in movie industry, latest flick, My Sunshine

Popular social media sensation and skit maker, Kemz Mama, better known as...

Nigerian stars set to shine at 2025 Grammy Awards with record nominations

Nigerian music stars have taken the spotlight in the 2025 Grammy Award...

Funke Akindele set to light up the big screens with “Everybody Loves Jenifa” premiere

LDecember is shaping up to be an unforgettable month for Nollywood fans...

My health badly affected after robbery of my store, Uche Ogbodo cries out

Nollywood actress and businesswoman Uche Ogbodo has called on influential Nigerians to...

At wife’s Christian wake: I saw the storm coming but never imagined it would claim her life—Dare Melody

It was a sombre weekend for many sympathizers at the Christian wake...

Exclusive: How personal losses ‘pushed’ AY, Basketmouth to reconcile after 18-year rift

Following 18 years of discord, Nigerian comedy icons Ayo Makun, famously known...

Song theft allegation shatters P-Square as Rudeboy drags Mr. P over new song

Just when the Okoye brothers’ fans believed the past wounds had finally...

US poll: Kamala Harris calls Donald Trump, concedes defeat

Vice President Kamala Harris has officially conceded the 2024 presidential election, offering...