Entertainment
BREAKING: Nollywood Icon Mr Ibu Passes Away At 62
Renowned Nollywood actor, John Okarfor, famously known as Mr Ibu, has tragically passed away at the age of 62.
The veteran comedian breathed his last at Evercare Hospital, as confirmed by sources close to him.
Mr Ibu, beloved for his comedic roles, leaves behind a legacy cherished by fans worldwide.
While the exact cause of his demise remains shrouded in uncertainty, reports gathered by Biztellers indicate that Mr Ibu had been battling health challenges since October 2023, undergoing multiple surgeries, including the amputation of his leg.
Despite initial signs of recovery reported by his family in November, his health took a devastating turn.
This sorrowful news comes in the wake of another loss to the Nollywood community, with the recent passing of Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri, adding to the somber mood within the industry.
Mr Ibu’s career was not without its controversies. In 2019, he made headlines after alleging that his domestic workers, influenced by his kinsmen, attempted to poison him due to jealousy over his flourishing career.
He reiterated similar claims in May 2022, suggesting multiple attempts on his life.
In a candid interview, Mr Ibu spoke of his harrowing experiences, revealing his brushes with death and his steadfast belief in divine intervention.
Despite the adversities he faced, he remained resilient, trusting in God’s providence to overcome his tribulations.
As news of his passing reverberates throughout the Nollywood community, numerous industry figures have taken to social media, lighting virtual candles and expressing their condolences, reflecting on Mr Ibu’s impactful contributions to Nigerian cinema.
The void left by Mr Ibu’s departure will undoubtedly be felt deeply within Nollywood and beyond, as fans mourn the loss of an irreplaceable talent whose laughter brought joy to countless lives.
Controversial Nigerian singer Darlington Okoye, popularly known as Speed Darlington or Akpi, has been released from Kuje Prison following a court directive.
Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju disclosed this development on Tuesday, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “Speed Darlington is out of Kuje Prison.”
The singer’s release came after an Abuja court granted him bail. This decision followed intense public pressure on the Nigeria Police Force, which led to his arraignment.
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Prior to his release, Speed Darlington had petitioned Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau, DIG Dasuki Galadanchi, over his prolonged detention. He called on the DIG to comply with a court order directing his release or formal arraignment.
Justice M.S. Liman had earlier issued an order on December 23, 2024, mandating the police to charge the singer within 48 hours or release him unconditionally.
Speed Darlington’s arrest stemmed from allegations he made against Grammy Award-winning singer Burna Boy. The singer accused Burna Boy of being involved in an immoral relationship with embattled U.S. rapper and music executive Sean Combs, also known as P. Diddy.
The situation has sparked widespread discussions, with many Nigerians expressing relief at Speed Darlington’s freedom while others continue to debate the circumstances surrounding his arrest.
Veteran Nollywood actor, Dele Odule, has opened up about the most heartbreaking moment of his life, revealing it was when he lost his first child.
The 63-year-old Yoruba movie icon shared the emotional experience during an interview with his colleague, Kunle Afod, recounting how the loss deeply affected him, especially given the challenges surrounding the child’s birth.
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Odule described the tragic news as “very hard” to bear, adding that he has since come to accept it as the will of God. Despite the acceptance, the actor expressed his fervent hope never to endure such a devastating tragedy again.
He said, “The saddest moment of my life was when I was called that my first child died. It was very hard on me. It was hard because of the situation faced during the child’s birth, but no one can question God’s authority. It was so bad that I don’t pray for it anymore.”
Known for his roles in classic Yoruba films, Odule continues to share both his professional and personal experiences, endearing himself to fans and colleagues alike.
In early January 2025, Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy fulfilled a promise by gifting $30,000 to Bethel Okechukwu, a phone repairer from Alaba Market who had claimed to be related to socialite Cubana Chief Priest.
This act of generosity occurred amid an ongoing feud between Burna Boy and the Cubana Chief Priest.
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Following the donation, Cubana Chief Priest clarified that Bethel Okechukwu is not his brother, stating, “I have only one biological big brother & two kid sisters. They ain’t doing so bad.” He emphasized that he is not obligated to support his siblings financially and urged the public to verify such claims.
As of now, there are no credible reports indicating that Burna Boy instructed Bethel Okechukwu to take any specific actions towards Cubana Chief Priest after receiving the $30,000. The narrative appears to be centered around Burna Boy’s charitable gesture and Cubana Chief Priest’s subsequent clarification regarding his familial relationships.
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