The family of the late Nigerian actor, John Okafor, famously known as Mr Ibu, has designated June 28 as the date for his burial services.
Mr Ibu’s final resting place will be in his hometown of Amuri, situated in the Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.
In a press release, the family outlined that the funeral proceedings will span five days, including various events leading up to the burial.
On Tuesday, June 25, a procession in his honor will take place in his hometown in Enugu state.
Subsequently, on Wednesday, June 26, a candlelight vigil and a live entertainment event, named Mr Ibu’s Night, will be held.
June 27 will see a wake-keeping ceremony at his residence in Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West, while the burial and funeral service are scheduled for June 28.
The ceremony will conclude on Sunday, June 30, with a thanksgiving service in church, attended by family, friends, and well-wishers.
“The Okafor family in Eziokwe Amuri, Nkanu West LGA in Enugu State wishes to honour the loving memory of our hero and 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,” parts of the statement read.
Mr Ibu, the beloved Nigerian actor, passed away on Saturday, March 2, at the age of 62. In an Instagram post, Mr. Rollas disclosed that the actor, who had been battling illness for months, succumbed to cardiac arrest.
Prior to his demise, Mr. Ibu had been grappling with health issues for several months, undergoing multiple surgeries, including the amputation of one of his legs.
Hailing from Enugu, the prolific actor left an indelible mark on Nollywood, having appeared in over 200 films.
He rose to prominence in 2004 with the film “Mr Ibu,” which chronicles the adventures of the titular single father and his son as they navigate life, encountering a series of comical and challenging situations.
“His facial expressions and his body were his biggest selling points,” film director Babangida Bangis told the BBC, contrasting him to most comic actors who use words to make people laugh.
“Mr Ibu was different as he doesn’t even have to talk to elicit laughter, as his face just like Mr Bean [Rowan Atkinson] will do the trick,” he said.
He further solidified his presence in the industry by appearing in numerous other films, such as “Coffin Producers,” “Husband Suppliers,” “International Players,” “Mr Ibu in London” (2004), “Police Recruit” (2003), “9 Wives” (2005), “Ibu in Prison” (2006), and “Keziah” (2007).
