The family and friends of the late Nollywood actor, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the funeral costs for the actor.
The family of the late actor had announced that he will be buried on June 28, 2024.
Mr Ibu passed away after suffering cardiac arrest on March 2, 2024, at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after months of hospitalisation, during which one of his legs was amputated.
Following the announcement of a five-day funeral for the actor, the central planning committee made up of his family and friends appealed to the public for donations to ensure a successful burial for him.
A statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Central Planning Committee, Monday Diamond; Secretary, Central Planning Committee, Christy Ejiofor; and the President, Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas; stated that the ailment which led to the actor’s death consumed millions of naira, which was why they were asking for financial assistance.
The statement read, “The Central Planning Committee of Late John Okafor (family and friends) solicit financial support from the general public to help them execute a successful burial for the late Nollywood legend.
“Mr Ibu suffered an ailment which consumed tens of millions (of naira) through hospital bills for almost a year.
According to the funeral announcement signed by Sunday Okafor on behalf of the family, the burial arrangements will begin on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, with a novelty match between Nollywood and Rangers International.
Also, a candle night procession will be held for the actor on Wednesday, June 26; while a wake at the actor’s compound in Eziokwe Amurri in Enugu State will follow on Thursday, June 27.
The statement added, “On Friday, June 28, 2024, his body leaves Eastern Nigeria Medical Center to his hometown in Amurri, Nkanu West LGA around 10 am for the burial ceremony. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, June 30, followed by a thanksgiving service.”
The Central Planning Committee also expressed gratitude to those who had already contributed, especially Jeremiah Fufeyin, the head prophet of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry in Effurun, Delta state.