The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has provided clarity regarding the decision not to pursue medical treatment abroad for the late Nollywood comic actor, John Okafor, affectionately known as Mr. Ibu.
It is recalled that Mr. Ibu passed away on March 2, 2024, at the age of 62, following an extended struggle with illness.
In a recent interview with Afia TV, Chief Emeka Rollas, the president of AGN, explained that Mr. Ibu was deemed ineligible for treatment in both the United States and India due to his medical condition, which posed significant risks associated with air travel.
Chief Emeka elaborated on the challenges that prevented Mr. Ibu from seeking medical care abroad, stating, “There was a time when we considered sending Ibu overseas, but upon consulting with doctors and reviewing his prognosis, nearly all hospitals in India and America declined, citing the high risk associated with transporting someone with his prognosis to any destination.”
Prior to his passing, Mr. Ibu’s family had disclosed in November 2023 that the veteran Nollywood actor had undergone seven surgeries, and as a last resort to prolong his life, one of his legs had to be amputated.
In December, Mr. Ibu underwent the leg amputation procedure and was grappling with significant speech difficulties.
Initially, his family had intentions to send him abroad for further medical intervention, but tragically, he passed away before those plans could be realized.
