Peter Obi, The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor, John Okafor, well known as Mr Ibu.
AFRIPOST reports that Mr Ibu was confirmed dead on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at a hospital in Lagos.
The actor, who was best known and loved for his comic roles in movies and skits, was said to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
However, Obi in a condolence message posted on his X, formerly Twitter, handle on Sunday, stated that Mr Ibu’s death was a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry, but to the nation.
His tweet partly read, “His death is very saddening. He was one legendary comic actor who embodied laughter, exuded joy, and spread happiness.
“When sadly he took ill, we all prayed for his quick recovery and hoped he would bounce back in good health.
“His death is a huge loss, not just to the entertainment industry, but to the nation.
“Those artists who lighten the mood of the nation also perform a great task of helping us all to weather the dark storms of life.
“On behalf of my family, I commiserate with his bereaved family, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, who just lost two legendary actors within a few days, and the entire Nollywood family.
“We share the pains of his death, but are comforted by the cherished moments of joy and happiness he left behind.”
Mr Ibu’s death came barely 24 hours after Yoruba actor, Quadri Oyebamiji, aka Sisi Quadri, passed away in Osun State.