Lagos, Nigeria: Famous Nigerian comic actor John Okafor, widely known as Mr Ibu, has had his leg amputated due to undisclosed medical reasons. The actor’s family shared the distressing news in a statement on his official Instagram page.
According to the family’s statement, doctors were left with no choice but to amputate the limb in a desperate attempt to save the actor’s life. The family revealed that accepting this drastic measure has been incredibly difficult, but they have had to take it as Mr Ibu’s new reality.
The 62-year-old actor, renowned for his comedic roles in numerous Nollywood films such as “Keziah,” “9 Wives,” and “Mr Ibu in London,” has been battling a severe illness that necessitated seven rounds of surgery.
The family has not disclosed the specific nature of the ailment that led to the amputation.
The statement further indicates that Mr Ibu is not out of the woods yet and requires one more surgery to complete his medical treatment.
In the face of these challenges, the family has contacted well-wishers and fans for support, indicating that former Senate President Bukola Saraki has already covered some medical expenses.
Notably, this plea for financial assistance has sparked conversations about the economic well-being of Nollywood actors.
The family’s request for external funding has left many questioning why individuals in the entertainment industry, seemingly prosperous, are unable to cover their medical expenses.
In response to these queries, industry insiders have shed light on the economic dynamics within Nollywood. Pay rates for actors vary significantly, with top-tier performers earning up to 3 million naira ($3,700; £3,000) for their roles, while some minor parts are reportedly unpaid.
This stark income disparity within the industry has fueled a dependence on external support for medical emergencies.
Like many countries, Nigeria grapples with the challenges of healthcare accessibility, and a significant portion of the population relies on private medical care, which can be prohibitively expensive.
The financial strain posed by medical emergencies often necessitates reaching out to the public for assistance, even for those in the limelight.
As Mr Ibu faces this challenging chapter, the entertainment community and fans rally together to support the beloved actor.
The family’s appeal serves as a poignant reminder of the broader issue of healthcare accessibility in Nigeria. It prompts reflection on individuals’ financial challenges in the entertainment industry despite their public personas.
In the spirit of solidarity, Mr Ibu’s fans and well-wishers are encouraged to contribute to the remaining medical expenses, demonstrating the power of collective support in times of adversity.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
